Mufi Hannemann is getting ready to exit one of Hawaiʻi’s most visible tourism posts, and he chose a charity walk to break the news. On Saturday, Hannemann told walkers at the Visitor Industry Charity Walk that he plans to retire as president and CEO of the Hawaiʻi Lodging & Tourism Association after years at the helm of the powerful trade group. The announcement came during the 47th annual Charity Walk at Magic Island, a marquee fundraising day for hotels and hospitality workers across Oʻahu. Hannemann said he will help with the transition but did not give a firm final date for his departure.
He revealed his plans while addressing participants at the walk, as reported by KITV. The Oʻahu leg of the statewide event, which starts at Magic Island, has been held in May for decades according to the official Visitor Industry Charity Walk page.
Long Run in Tourism Leadership
Hannemann first took the helm of the statewide lodging association in 2011 and later returned to lead the organization, tying his name closely to industry advocacy and the Charity Walk itself, per Maui Now and the association’s staff listing. He has been a familiar face at the Charity Walk for years: KITV notes Hannemann has participated in 20 walks and served as president and CEO for 13 of those events.
A Tenure Marked by Advocacy and Scrutiny
Before running HLTA, Hannemann served as mayor of Honolulu and became a prominent voice on issues ranging from workforce development to visitor policy. His leadership has also drawn scrutiny. Hannemann stepped down as chair of the Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority in March 2025 after questions raised by a state audit, a development covered by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.
What Comes Next for HLTA
The association did not immediately name a successor after Hannemann’s announcement. HLTA lists Hannemann as its president and CEO and shows the organization’s leadership and headquarters on its staff page. He is expected to assist the board during any executive search, according to KITV and the association’s roster.
Why the Change Matters Locally
HLTA is a major industry voice in Hawaiʻi. The trade group represents hundreds of members and tens of thousands of rooms statewide, and the Charity Walk channels donations back into local nonprofits and social services. Local outlets that track the association point to its size and community role, underscoring why a leadership change at HLTA is likely to draw attention across the islands.
