20 for the Next 20: Kisan Jo, Central Pacific Bank

The executive VP of retail and wealth markets is known as a change agent, driving innovation that enhances customer relations.

When it comes down to it, there isn’t much difference between the hospitality and banking industries, says Kisan Jo, who’s worked in both and is now a rising star at Central Pacific Bank.

“The fundamentals are the same; it’s a people business whether it’s hospitality or banking,” Jo says. “It’s about how we treat people, how we provide great customer service.”

Jo joined CPB in 2021 after 12 years at Prince Resorts Hawaii, where he ended as president.

Starting at CPB as executive VP of retail markets and operations, Jo became known as a change agent, focusing on initiatives that drive innovation and enhance customer relations. His role soon expanded to include wealth markets.

To improve customer relations, he championed the launch of a new client experience platform designed to collect feedback that can be turned into action. That initiative helps CPB meet the evolving needs of customers.

Jo also spearheaded the launch of a branch technology platform that gives employees advanced tools to improve client experiences and internal workflows, making the bank more efficient and cost-effective.

“Kisan has made an impact by enabling his team members to make a positive difference for our customers, community and each other,” says CPB chairman, president and CEO Arnold Martines. “He has leveraged his past executive experience in finance and hospitality to become a valuable member of the bank’s executive leadership team.”

Jo came to Hawai‘i at age 27 for a job in the Honolulu office of accounting firm Deloitte, for whom he had been working as an auditor in the Seoul office.

He subsequently earned an MBA at UH’s Shidler College of Business and graduated from the Pacific Coast Banking School in September 2024.

Jo serves as a board member for Aloha United Way and mentors the next generation through the Boys & Girls Club of Hawaii.

Michael Young, president and CEO at general contractor Albert C. Kobayashi, says Jo has a brilliant mind, a strong technical background and great leadership qualities.

“He is strategic, inspirational and empathetic. He cares a lot about his employees, friends, family and the local community. He’s served in a variety of leadership roles in different industries and consistently delivers results,” Young says.

Despite his many accomplishments, Jo remains humble.

“It’s not me; it’s the people around me. Every single employee on the front line, no matter their level, are all doing a great job.”