Year In Review: 2019
Highlights from some of Hawai‘i’s top executives, professionals and companies.
BEST PLACES TO WORK
Pacxa
Pacxa – Hawai‘i’s leading IT solutions provider – has been named one of the “Best Places To Work” for the sixth year in a row. The reason: Pacxa’s team of 80 dedicated employees.
“Our team really thrives on working together to bring solutions to our customers that positively impact their business outcomes,” says Doug Shimokawa, senior vice president of Pacxa. “They love helping customers succeed through technology and are ultra-passionate about utilizing leading-edge technologies through our partners, like Oracle and Microsoft.”
Clients trust Pacxa. Over the years, the company has implemented Hawai‘i’s largest retirement benefits program; updated the state’s revenue management system for 14 airports; and managed websites for government agencies, medical offices, nonprofit groups, and more.
Photo: Aaron Yoshino
Pacxa’s comprehensive IT services include: security protection; cloud services; virtual office environments; fully outsourced IT and 24-7 support; Microsoft Exchange and application hosting; and business consulting, just to name a few. The company services a wide range of clients, from small businesses to large enterprises. In addition, Pacxa is the only Oracle Platinum-Level Partner in the state.
As a forerunner in Hawai‘i’s IT industry, Pacxa continues to offer the latest and most advanced solutions. Cybersecurity and IT modernization are two top concerns in the business, and Pacxa has the means to protect and serve its clients.
“We’ve ultimately reduced their risk and exposure by implementing best-in-class and best-fit solutions for their needs,” Shimokawa says. “Hand in hand with security, our clients want solutions to help them be more productive in and out of the office, and we have helped them implement and manage solutions that make that possible.”
Customer service isn’t their only strength; they are also highly involved in the community. Throughout the year, employees participate in various efforts, those from 2018 including the Heart Walk and Noelani Elementary School’s Career Day. They also make life-saving donations to the Blood Bank of Hawai‘i each quarter. These volunteer programs lift spirits and create camaraderie at Pacxa.
“Our people remain our greatest strength, and we have built a team that really enjoys being around each other not only as colleagues but also as friends,” Shimokawa says. Team Pacxa is at the top of their game, and they’re ready for the challenges ahead.
Pacxa
1000 Bishop Street, Suite #701, Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 585-0444 | www.pacxa.com
Hawaiʻi Community Foundation
Individuals who work for an organization whose mission is to make Hawai‘i a better place tend to be passionate about the community, both inside and outside the office. “Every day, I can honestly say that I’ve had a hand in helping people in need and I’m proud to work here,” said Carla Pang, Senior Accountant.
The Hawai‘i Community Foundation (HCF) couldn’t be as effective as it has been over the last 100 years, if it didn’t also take care of its staff. “Staff are pretty much included in everything; we are in the know,” said Larissa Kick, Director of Community Grants & Investments. Regularly scheduled, two-way brown bag conversations with the HCF leadership team ensure that everyone in the 68-person statewide organization knows the direction of the Foundation. And a monthly “Board Bento Hour” gives staff the chance to brainstorm with Board members on ways to better serve the community.
“We’re building a family of professionals who collaborate with community partners to create a better future for Hawai‘i in which everyone can thrive,” said Micah A. Kāne, CEO & President. “That level of passion and collaboration starts by treating one another with respect and appreciation.”
Together, we can create a thriving Hawai‘i
for all and always. | Photo courtesy of Hawaiʻi Community Foundation
Compassion for others is so ingrained in the company’s culture, HCF employees took it upon themselves to establish the “Walk the Talk Fund,” which donates to causes with contributions from staff members and activities. Employees who choose to volunteer for a nonprofit during allocated work hours can do so. HCF’s culture of caring extends not only to the community, but also to the team. There are regular opportunities for staff to participate in sessions on meditation, Zumba, and healthy living.
A family-friendly work atmosphere means not only that employees become part of an ‘ohana, but also that a strong benefits package makes HCF a good place for women and mothers to work. The Foundation allows for flexibility in scheduling and welcomes children in the workplace when the need arises.
When the passion of employees matches the purpose of an organization, and when individual skills and perspectives are genuinely valued, it becomes the best place to work.
Hawaiʻi Community Foundation
827 Fort Street Mall, Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 537-6333 | hawaiicommunityfoundation.org
Hawaii State FCU
At Hawaii State Federal Credit Union, we are always right by you.
Being there. Doing the right thing. Treating our members and each other like family. These are the cornerstones of being always right by you.
We encourage our employees to live by our brand promise and foster an internal culture that upholds these brand values. This not only helps strengthen relationships among colleagues but fosters employee retention and engagement. We want our employees to live authentically always right by you so our members feel it, hear it and experience it.
And they do. Our surveys show extremely high member satisfaction. By operating in a manner that is personal, heartfelt and sincere our employees stay connected and stand by each other at work and after work, ready to lend support. Because at the heart of it, that’s what families do.
Hawaii State FCU is committed to providing employees with a competitive compensation and benefits package. An attractive and generous annual incentive program recognizes employees for their dedication and contributions made throughout the year. And to support our employees’ health and well-being, we provide an annual wellness fair, flu shots, an on-site fitness center, discounted fitness club memberships, financial literacy classes, and counseling in-person, over the phone and online.
However, our benefits extend beyond retirement contributions and healthcare. We are committed to maintaining a workplace that is fun, productive and offers professional life-long learning and growth.
We’re a place where employees come together as a family to work hard and play hard, and to connect, unite and celebrate special occasions and milestones. Employees also give of their time outside the office to lend a hand by participating in the American Heart Association’s Heart Walk and volunteering at the Friends of the Library of Hawaii Annual Book Sale.
Treasuring the relationships we have with each other, our members and our community is what sets us apart. It’s who we are and what we stand for.
Always right by you. Four simple words that alone may not mean much. But together, this phrase means everything to us.
Hawaii State Federal Credit Union
560 Halekauwila Street, #5, Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 587-2700 | www.HawaiiStateFCU.com
Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc.
Creating solutions since 1934, Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates (ATA), a civil engineering, traffic engineering and land surveying firm, has been part of the development and growth of the islands from even before there were highways. With offices in Honolulu, Wailuku and Hilo, ATA has planned communities and designed infrastructure on all islands and across the Pacific, establishing itself as one of the older kama‘aina companies in Hawaii’s engineering landscape.
What has contributed to ATA’s longevity and success? According to President Terrance Arashiro, “Excellence attracts excellence. Having wonderfully talented and hardworking associates attracts others of equal mindset. This leads to convergence with really great clients working on transformative projects in our communities.”
Photo: David Croxford
One of ATA’s mantra’s is “Rooted in Trust. Guided by Principle.” Starting with trust, they commit themselves to pouring into understanding their clients’ interests and objectives, not just the project details, but who the client is and the purpose of their undertaking. Building upon an established relationship, they create solutions that are balanced, sustainable, and support the community for which a project is being built. Never one to bemoan their circumstances, you will find staff who serve with positivity and an uplifted client and civic-centric perspective. They just want to do as much good as they can.
It’s no surprise then that ATA is recognized as a past HB’s Best Places to Work. High-quality staff requires a high-quality workplace. Always looking to make an impact in their associates’ lives, ATA recently converted to an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) to open the company to all associates, and implemented a Paid-Time Off (PTO) program with substantial allocation of days while still allowing for a bank of sick leave to cover longer-term health challenges, which they hope is infrequent through their recurrent health and wellness initiatives.
Vice President DeAnna Hayashi says, “We know that when we take care of our people, they will take care of our clients. And even if our bottom line doesn’t skyrocket, it’s always a fun ride.” With 85 years under its belt, there doesn’t seem to be any slowing in ATA’s future as they set their sights on reaching their centennial mark. Ho‘omau!
|
Honolulu Office |
Maui Office |
Hilo Office |
Ronald N.S. Ho & Associates, Inc.
Our company core values have never changed over the years. We strive to live our core values each day and continue to provide our clients with the service and quality of work we have always delivered,” says Sean Sugai, President of Ronald N.S. Ho & Associates, Inc. Established in 1978, the employee-owned company celebrated a milestone anniversary last year, proudly serving their community, clients and its employees for 40 years.
“It is an honor to be running a company that has developed so much history and tradition over its 40 years in existence. All of the company’s success can be attributed to the talent that has walked through its doors and contributed to its operations. We have stayed true to the traditions established over the years and introduced new ideas to help us evolve into a much larger and more progressive company,” Sugai adds.
Today, the electrical engineering firm continues to recognize that the backbone of the company is its employees. An open door communication philosophy is fostered enabling employees to share their feedback, ultimately shaping employee initiatives and programs. In addition, employees are highly encouraged and supported to improve their skills through technical and educational training.
Work-life balance is also promoted through flexible work schedules and keeping overtime to a bare minimum. The company organizes several employee events and activities each year, including community service projects – Las Vegas trips, weekend staycations, barbecues, school supplies drive, Hawaii Blood Bank drive; just to name a few.
Looking forward, Ronald N.S. Ho & Associates, Inc. is accepting the challenge to encompass an evolution of mindset within the company. Employee diversity, the ability to think progressively and nurture an open-minded culture will be at utmost importance for continued growth.
“I am most excited with the talent we currently have within the company,” says Sugai. “We have a mixture of experience levels which allows us to provide the continued service and quality of work we have been accustomed to over the years, as well as utilize the energy and eagerness of our younger staff to carry on the values established over 40 years.”
Ronald N.S. Ho & Associates, Inc.
2153 N. King St., Ste. 201, Honolulu, HI 96819
(808) 941-0577 | www.rnsha.com
LIVING HEALTHY
Kroc Center Hawaiʻi
Located on 15 acres of land in West O‘ahu, The Salvation Army Kroc Center Hawai‘i is the largest local community center of its kind in Hawai‘i. It is a place where people young and old have opportunities to learn, grow, and thrive. Our Health and Wellness Center is equipped with state-of-the-art exercise equipment, and staffed with personal trainers, massage therapists and group exercise instructors ready to help you meet your fitness or wellness goals. The sprawling Aquatic Center includes a leisure pool area with a splash pad, two lazy river channels and two water slides; a competition pool; and jacuzzi. Our NCAA regulation Gymnasium is a great place to practice your jump shot or play a pick up volleyball game.
Kroc Center Hawai‘i also offers a variety of event venue spaces perfect for hosting a conference, corporate retreat or meeting, or celebrate a birthday or special occasion. The Kroc Center also offers a variety of programs and classes for both adults and youth including art, music, dance, sports and swimming. As your home away from home, we encourage our Kroc ‘ohana to thrive physically, mentally, and spiritually. Whether you’re looking for a little getaway for your family or just want to try new things, Kroc Center Hawai‘i has something for you.
Kroc Center Hawaiʻi
91-3257 Kualaka‘i Parkway
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
(808) 682-5505 | kroccenterhawaii.org
TOP 100 IN REAL ESTATE
Melanie Long
R, PB, GRI, ABR, CDPE, EPRO, RB-19045
Thank you to my family and friends for your referrals and business. It’s an honor to assist you all with your home and property purchases. I appreciate you all, for your business and your trust.
I started Pacific International Realty in 2006, and the goal was to always provide excellent real estate service. Now, years later as our small boutique-company has expanded and grown, we still keep the same vision as when we started. Excellent real estate service. Everyone at our company strives to go above and beyond for every person they work with. At Pacific International Realty we work hard, and with diligence, to provide the utmost in ethical representation backed by experience and expertise. We truly care, and we enjoy what we’re doing. We want to make a difference.
I am honored to have won the Aloha ‘Aina award many times over the last several years. I cherish the Aloha ‘Aina awards as it represents recognition based on my actual clients that have taken the time to nominate me, and have shared their stories of their personal journeys to home ownership.
Mahalo nui to all that have supported me, Pacific International Realty, and our agents. Our agents are just fantastic people and agents. All of us, at Pacific International Realty look forward to even better years ahead, with several new Buyer specials and insightful new Listing Tips we will be rolling out soon!
Pacific International Realty is a locally owned small business, proudly operating in Hawaii. We care about Hawaii, the ‘Aina, and its people.
Me ke aloha pumehana to my husband Charlie Long, our 6 kids and all the ‘Ohana for their tireless Kokua –Melanie
Pacific International Realty
7192 Kalanianaole Hwy. Suite# G-100
Honolulu, HI 96825
(808) 375-9223 | melanie@melanielong.com
Myron Kiriu
Realtor®, CEO, Owner, RB-17242
Myron Kiriu has over 30 years of Hawaii real estate experience and is consistently one of the top 5 agents in the state. Having successfully closed on hundreds of transactions and over $1 billion in total sales, Myron works diligently with his “client first” approach. He utilizes a very talented team and the latest technology to effectively service each of his clients based on their unique needs. Myron was honored the past four years to receive the Better Homes and Garden Real Estate® (BHGRE) award for #1 Broker/Agent team in the Nation; named #1 Realtor on Oahu by Hawaii Business Magazine in 2018; and voted “Hawaii’s Best” Realtor four times by Honolulu Star-Advertiser readers.
A UC Berkeley alumnus and former CPA with KPMG Peat Marwick (Honolulu) and PriceWaterhouse/Coopers (San Francisco), Myron brings a wealth of experience and a keen financial insight to every transaction. Myron is the CEO and co-owner of BHGRE Advantage Realty along with his wife and business partner Ambur Kim Kiriu. While leading BHGRE for the past 15 years, the firm has consistently received a host of accolades: Named one of Hawaii’s “Best Places to Work” in 2019 by Hawaii Business Magazine; Voted “Hawaii’s Best” Real Estate Firm 9 times by Honolulu Star-Advertiser readers; Voted “Best of Honolulu” Real Estate Firm by Honolulu magazine readers 6 times; and received the BHGRE Most Productive Brokerage Award for the past 4 years.
Better Homes and Gardens Real Estate Advantage Realty
Kahala Mall, Upper Level
4211 Waialae Ave., Box 9050, Honolulu, HI 96816
(808) 864-9000
myronk@betterhawaii.com | MyronKiriu.com
CORPORATE ANNIVERSARIES
Altres, Inc.
Making Business Simple
It’s 6:00 in the morning in Waikiki. From a second-story lanai, Bill Guss hoists a blue flag up a simple pole, signaling to the surfers out in the lineup that there is work available. In 1969, Hawaii’s burgeoning businesses needed a flexible and productive, on-call workforce, ready to step in when needed most. They relied on Labor Services, Inc.
A true entrepreneur and practical visionary, he believed that “Small business is the engine of society.” As the challenges for Hawaii’s businesses grew, so did Bill’s conviction to help. The small family business started to move beyond its humble beginnings. First there was the expansion of staffing services to include clerical and permanent placement. Then, fully recognizing how important cash flow can be to growing businesses, they ventured into accounts receivable financing.
Growing up in the business, Bill’s son Barron created Hawaii’s, and one of the nation’s, first Professional Employer Organizations, providing his clients relief from payroll, tax compliance, record keeping, and the administrative burden associated with employment.
In 1993, the Guss family decided to bring all of these businesses together under one roof and created ALTRES – Alternative Resources for Business.
This year ALTRES celebrates its 50th anniversary and remains steadfast in its commitment to “making business simple.” Over the years, ALTRES has expanded to meet the needs of the statewide community and today is made up of a family of business solutions including ALTRES Staffing, Home Care by ALTRES Medical, Real Jobs Hawaii, simplicityHR by ALTRES and HR Symphony®, ALTRES’ award-winning technology.
“Our mission has always been to help businesses simplify. A strong and focused business means a strong local economy and a strong Hawaii,” said Kerry Kopp, President of ALTRES Staffing.
To ring in its 50th anniversary and strengthen the local business community, ALTRES has their simplicityHR Services Grants to benefit small businesses. Eligible startups will receive FREE HR services for a full calendar year. To learn more visit simplicityHR.com/grant.
“We know how challenging it can be in those first few years,” Guss says. “We want to give young businesses a head start. It’s our way of giving back after fifty successful years.”
Altres, Inc.
967 Kapiolani Blvd, Honolulu, HI 96814
(808) 591-4940 | www.altres.com
Ulupono Initiative
More locally produced food, renewable energy, clean transportation and fresh water – these essential elements of a more sustainable way of life in Hawaii are what drive Ulupono Initiative’s dedicated team.
From investing in Anoano Farms on Hawaii Island, to partnering with Honolulu Seawater Air Condition on Oahu, to leading the charge to promote electric vehicle use throughout the state, Ulupono has worked over the last 10 years to empower innovation through deliberate investments and grants that achieve sustainable progress.
Ulupono Initiative team members highlight key focus areas of locally produced food, renewable energy, fresh water and clean transportation at the firm’s Honolulu office. | Photo courtesy of Ulupono Initiative
eBay founder Pierre Omidyar and his wife, Pam, established Ulupono Initiative to invest in organizations working to decrease Hawaii’s dependence on imported food and fuel, as well as better managing waste. Both had spent part of their childhood in Hawaii, so when they returned to live in the Islands, they saw a need and set the framework to invest in the community from a values-driven perspective.
As an impact investment firm, Ulupono invests with purpose, committing significant time and resources to advance catalytic change within its focus areas. Its team has grown to a dozen staff with expertise across key sectors, but Ulupono always maintains a community-based approach.
“We collaborate with partners to leverage long-term local experience and wisdom, proven management, innovation and best-in-class technology to identify and implement sustainable, resilient solutions,” said Ulupono Initiative Managing Partner Murray Clay.
“Our investment model is based on our founders’ belief that both the non-profit and for-profit sectors can be a force for good.”
Ulupono Initiative
P.O. Box 2938, Honolulu, HI 96802
(808) 544-8960 | www.ulupono.com
TOP 250
HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union
HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union opened in 1936 in support of elementary school teachers in the Honolulu District and all teachers from every grade level in rural Oahu. Today, HawaiiUSA has grown to be the largest credit union in the State of Hawaii in both assets and membership, and now includes individuals (and their family members) in the field of education on Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island, as well as a large number of businesses and associational groups.
HawaiiUSA’s staff of financial wellness experts share tips on how to manage money wisely. | Photo courtesy of HawaiiUSA Federal Credit Union
A credit union where Life matters
Delivering exceptional experiences starts with HawaiiUSA’s Life matters promise – to improve members’ lives by encouraging them to dream big about their life goals and providing financial wellness advice and tools to make them a reality.
Investing in financially healthy employees
HawaiiUSA business partners include small companies, large enterprises, non-profits, organizations, and associations. They can offer staff (and immediate families) an expansive benefits package that puts their financial wellness at the forefront – competitive rates, discounts, and exclusive promotions, plus complimentary workshops for trusted money tips and expert advisement to build financial confidence. Wise financial choices help employees achieve their personal goals and dreams.
Our responsibility to our members and partners
For more than 80 years, HawaiiUSA has been a proponent for the financial health of its members, affiliated businesses, and communities. With an emphasis on education and financial consulting, and local giveback in the form of scholarships, educator stipends, and school partnerships, HawaiiUSA helps its members to choose wisely because Life matters.
HawaiiUsa Federal Credit Union
1226 College Walk, Honolulu, HI 96817
(808) 534-4300 | hawaiiusafcu.com
St. Francis Healthcare System
The St. Francis Kūpuna Village in Liliha is becoming a reality. The campus is being intentionally redesigned to be a senior-friendly, one-stop health and wellness center.
A multi-purpose senior community center now hosts educational sessions as well as fitness and wellness classes for seniors and family caregivers. An adult day care program on the campus will be ideal for adult children who work downtown, offering convenient access to their aging parents who cannot be left at home during the day.
Construction of Hale O Meleana, a 111-unit assisted living facility with memory care, will add another dimension of care when completed in early 2020. Translated as House of Marianne, the facility honors Saint Marianne Cope, who came to Hawaii with six Sisters of St. Francis in 1883 to care for those with Hansen’s disease.
St. Francis Healthcare System
P.O. Box 29700 Honolulu, Hawaii 96820
(808) 547-6500 | stfrancishawaii.org
Sky Ala Moana
The Residences at Sky Ala Moana soar 400 feet into Honolulu’s vibrant and dynamic skyline. Rising 43 stories in the heart of the Ala Moana/Kapiolani corridor, Sky Ala Moana is truly where heaven meets earth. Situated just minutes from vast stretches of sandy beaches on Oahu’s South Shore and mere steps from the best shopping, dining, and entertainment on the island of Oahu.
Perfectly situated directly across from Ala Moana Shopping Center and steps away from the planned future Rail Station, Sky Ala Moana offers an unparalleled urban lifestyle opportunity in the heart of Honolulu.
The Residences
The Residences is a collection of one- and two-bedroom units privately housed within the upper 36 floors of the West Tower. Designed for elevated living, the tower offers stunning views, open air lanais and contemporary interior finishes curated by Philpotts Interiors.
Sky Terrace
The approximately 53,900 square-foot wellness-oriented terrace is one of the largest of its kind in Honolulu. Immerse yourself in the luxurious spa-like offerings, vast green lawns for recreation and enchanting gardens. Beautifully appointed lounge and event spaces include kitchen amenities and outdoor barbecues. Sky Terrace is more than an amenity—it’s paradise.
Design
Based on proven urban design principles, Sky Ala Moana is a fusion of intelligent architecture by Design Partners Incorporated and contemporary interiors. With lush landscaping designed by Brownlie & Lee and private lanais, Sky Ala Moana is an urban oasis situated at the city’s hub.
Sky Shops
The Kapiolani ground level offers residents and the public a unique, diverse retail dining and shopping experience. Accessed through a central porte-cochere drive, Sky Shops anchor the eight-level podium that connects the soaring towers to the urban boulevard.
Parking
All units at Sky Ala Moana West include gated and secured parking for residents. This includes full size covered stalls as well as guest stalls for exclusive use by the residents.
1538 Kapiolani Boulevard #102, Honolulu, HI 96814
(808) 369-1149
info@skyalamoana.com | skyalamoana.com
