The Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Hawaii has announced the appointment of Leelen Park as its new executive director.
In this key leadership role, Leelen will provide strategic direction and visionary leadership to ensure the chamber continues to be a vital force in addressing local issues, fostering business development, and enhancing community engagement.
Leelen will split his time between JCCIH and his ongoing role as executive director of the North Kohala Community Resource Center.
According to a JCCIH press release, Leelen brings over 14 years of experience in the nonprofit sector, excelling in leadership, community development and strategic planning. His background includes serving as the executive director of the North Kohala Community Resource Center, where he demonstrated his ability to manage operations effectively and engage with community stakeholders.
Leelen holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
As executive director of JCCIH, Leelen will oversee the organization’s day-to-day operations, develop and implement strategic initiatives, and advocate for the interests of the local Japanese business community.
Leelen’s commitment to community service is evident through his active involvement with organizations such as the Boy Scouts and The Food Basket, where he has contributed his time and expertise to various initiatives.
Guided by his three core pillars — leadership, community and service — Leelen splits his time between North Kohala and Hilo, actively participating in community boards and initiatives that promote cultural understanding and business growth.
“We are excited to welcome Leelen Park to the JCCIH executive director role, a role that has vacant for over 20 years,” said Ka‘iu Kimura, chair of the JCCIH Board of Directors. “With his extensive experience and dedication to community service, we are confident that he will lead our organization in promoting the interests of the Hawaii Island business community and strengthening connections within our local community.”
The JCCIH is committed to fostering cultural understanding, supporting its members, and contributing to the overall economic vitality of the region.
