Hawai’i Visitors Bureau Names New VP, COO

Tom Mullen recently joined the Hawai’i Visitors and Convention Bureau as the company’s senior vice president, a role newly created. He will also serve as Chief Operating Officer.

At HVCB, Mullen will hold responsibility for finance and corporate services, contract compliance, business development, and travel industry partnerships.

Before taking the role at HVCB, Mullen was the Chief Administrative Officer with the Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board. He had also held a 27-year position at American Express, where he spent the majority of his time in Hawai’i working various in sectors of the company.

“We are very excited to have Tom join our team with his years of experience and proven track record of success in the industry,” said John Monahan, HVCB president and Chief Executive Officer. “He is well versed in convention and visitors bureau operations, well regarded in the local community, and has been involved in many events and charitable functions across the state. He will be invaluable in helping us achieve our goals and objectives.”

Mullen graduated from the University of Hawai’i at Manoa with a bachelor’s degree in accounting.

“I’m excited to be to returning to the Hawaiian Islands and utilizing the knowledge I’ve gained over the last eight years to have a positive impact on tourism and the economy of Hawai’i,” Mullen said.

Mullen replaced Wayne Arita, HVCB’s Chief Financial Officer, after he retired in September.

“Over the past 11 years, Wayne has worked tirelessly to ensure HVCB’s financial stability, strengthen our organizational structure, and has been instrumental in building upon our solid relationship with the Hawai’i Tourism Authority, our stakeholders and our staff,” Mullen said. “Now it’s time for him to enjoy the fruits of his labor in retirement spending time with his family.”