City announces search for Assistant Administrator at Honolulu Liquor Commission
News Release from City and County of Honolulu, February 20, 2025
HONOLULU – The City and County of Honolulu announced Thursday that the Honolulu Liquor Commission has commenced a search for a new senior-level executive to serve as the agency’s Assistant Administrator, managing day-to-day operations for the entity responsible for issuing liquor licenses and enforcing liquor laws on Oʻahu.
“We are searching for a highly-motivated, civic-minded individual with the knowledge, skills and experience to provide critical support in our continuing effort to dramatically improve the efficiency and effectiveness of Honolulu Liquor Commission operations,” said Sal Petilos, the Administrator of the Honolulu Liquor Commission. “Thousands of licensees around the island depend on the commission’s work to do business, and our next Assistant Administrator will have a key role to play in delivering on our promise to improve every facet of our operation.”
Among many day-to-day priorities, the Assistant Administrator is responsible for the general supervision and coordination of the Liquor Commission’s Administrative Services Branch, which manages liquor license applications and renewals, and its Field Services Branch, which oversees investigative and enforcement activities. Additionally, the Assistant Administrator helps to facilitate strategic planning and ensure effective communications not just within the Liquor Commission, but with external stakeholders — including licensees — and the broader community.
“This individual needs to have remarkable leadership skills, with a proven track record of motivating teams and influencing team members to deliver their best possible work for the good of our licensees and the community,” added Petilos. “They also need to have exceptional project management capabilities, with the capacity to oversee long-term projects that improve overall performance.”
Anna Hirai, the Liquor Commission’s outgoing Assistant Administrator, is stepping down from the position later this year.
“Assistant Administrator Anna Hirai has served the Liquor Commission in several capacities for almost two and a half decades,” said Petilos. “Her determination and expertise have been, and continue to be, critical to the Honolulu Liquor Commission’s efforts to improve operations.”
The listed salary for the position is $125,000. Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter to LIQ-HQ@honolulu.gov.
About the Honolulu Liquor Commission:
The Honolulu Liquor Commission, which is administratively attached to the City’s Department of Budget and Fiscal Services, issues liquor licenses, oversees the activities of licensees, and enforces state laws and commission regulations with respect to the licensing, regulation, sale or consumption of liquor by restaurants, liquor stores, bars and night clubs.
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