DBEDT Director to Join Sanhi Government Strategies

Luis P. Salaveria. Courtesy photo.

Luis P. Salaveria, director of the Department of Business, Economic, Development and Tourism (DBEDT), will leave his government position to join SanHi Government Strategies, a law practice firm at Ashford & Wriston specializing in government affairs. He will join the firm on Dec. 4, 2018.

“SanHi specializes in helping clients operate successfully in the local business ecosystem, which offers an ideal venue in which I can leverage my acquired experience,” said Salaveria. “I am excited about the opportunity to continue helping business and clients navigate Hawai‘i’s regulatory environment and work effectively with elected officials.”

Salaveria has more than 25 years of experience in public and private sector strategic planning. He has successfully led the development and execution of multi-billion-dollar budgets dealing with complex business transactions.

Salaveria has worked with all levels of government—federal, state and county. At DBEDT, Salaveria led the development and execution of state policies and initiatives to grow and diversify Hawai‘i’s economy. His portfolio of work includes: business development, domestic and international trade, energy, housing, and statewide economic planning.

Mihoko Ito, managing partner of SanHi Government Strategies, commented: “Luis is a results-driven
individual, with the technical expertise and vision to formulate strategic plans and execute them. His
advice and counsel will be extremely valuable to the members of our team and our clients.”