Maui Ocean Center Appoints New General Manager

Maui Ocean Center, The Hawaiian Aquarium, has announced the appointment of Tapani Vuori as General Manager. MOC photo.

Maui Ocean Center, The Hawaiian Aquarium, has appointed Tapani Vuori as general manager.

After a total of 12 years with the company, Vuori’s new position became effective Sept. 1, 2015.

Bringing with him more than 26 years of experience in the retail and visitor industry on Maui and O‘ahu, Vuori’s advancement within the company brings a new focus and commitment to increased community partnerships regarding environmental stewardship and education for residents and visitors alike.

“I’m excited and humbled to move forward as general manager and I see a lot of possibilities for us to deepen our relationships with the Maui, Hawaiian, marine science, and education communities,” said Vuori. “We are committed to our mission, which is to foster understanding, wonder and respect for Hawai‘i’s marine life, while working alongside others in the community such as schools and experts in the marine science field.”

Vuori has been with Maui Ocean Center since 2002 as director of the aquarium’s gift shop, Maui Ocean Treasures, and later, with front gate admissions.

In 2011, Vuori left the company and joined Pacific Whale Foundation as the director of retail, food and beverage, e-commerce and photo operations, gaining additional experience there for a year, until returning to his previous position at Maui Ocean Center and starting e-commerce operations in 2013. He has previous experience in computer and furnishings industries.

Vuori was born in Finland and after serving in the military, he arrived in the US to pursue higher education. In 1987, Vuori earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of California, Los Angeles, in 1987. He currently resides in Kahului with his wife Ellen and their dog Humu. He enjoys spending time with family and exercising, which includes golfing and swimming in the ocean.

For more information about Maui Ocean Center, visit www.mauioceancenter.com.