County of Hawai‘i appoints new human resources director

Sommer Tokihiro has been announced as the new director of human resources for the County of Hawaiʻi.

The appointment was effective Nov. 16, 2023, following the departure of Waylen Leopoldino on June 30, 2023. The Merit Appeals Board, responsible for the recruitment process, conducted an internal search within the County of Hawaiʻi, ensuring a comprehensive and fair selection process.

Tokihiro brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Before being appointed Director, she served as HR Manager II in the Workers’ Compensation Division of the County of Hawaiʻi’s Department of Human Resources from April 2019 to November 2023. In this capacity, Tokihiro administered the County’s self-insured workers’ compensation program, demonstrating her commitment to employee well-being and organizational efficiency.

Her extensive background in case management, demonstrated during her tenure as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with Case Management Works – Hawai‘i, Inc., from October 2012 to March 2017, aligns seamlessly with the goals and responsibilities of the Director of Human Resources position. In that role, Tokihiro assisted individuals in returning to work following work-related injuries, showcasing her supportive and empathic approach to employee relations.

Tokihiro has proven to be a dedicated and results-driven professional throughout her career with an employment history spanning various roles within the County of Hawaiʻi and beyond.

Tokihiro holds a Master’s Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from San Diego State University and a Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University of Hawai‘i at Hilo. Additionally, she is a SHRM – Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor.