JoAnn Inamasu Named Maui Office of Economic Development Director

JoAnn Inamasu

Maui Mayor Michael Victorino today announced the appointment of JoAnn Inamasu as the new director of the County’s Office of Economic Development.

She succeeds Kay Fukumoto, who is stepping down effective June 15 to focus on family commitments. Inamasu’s appointment takes effect June 16.

“Ms. Inamasu comes with a wealth of experience in the Office of Economic Development, and I’m excited to have her join our team to help rebuild our economy in this challenging time of COVID-19 impacts,” Mayor Victorino said. “I want to thank Kay Fukumoto for her public service and wish her all the best as she cares for her family at this time.”

“It has been a privilege to work with such a dedicated staff in the Office of Economic Development,” Fukumoto said. “Now, I need to focus on family commitments, but I’m confident that JoAnn Inamasu’s proven leadership and extensive experience with OED will advance Mayor Victorino’s vision for economic diversification and development.”

JoAnn Inamasu commented on the appointment saying, “I have big shoes to fill with Kay’s departure, but I know we have a solid team in the Office of Economic Development that’s committed to Mayor Victorino’s vision of economic diversification and a stronger, more resilient economy for Maui County.”

Before returning to the County of Maui, Inamasu worked for five years as public relations coordinator with Goodfellow Bros.  Earlier, she served for three-and-a-half years as the Maui liaison for former Gov. Neil Abercrombie.

Before working for the Office of the Governor, she held various positions beginning in August 1997 in the County of Maui Office of Economic Development, including grants management and agriculture promotion and as deputy director of OED under former Mayor Charmaine Tavares.