McCartney Departs President Post at HTA

Mike McCartney, who served as the president and CEO of the Hawaii Tourism Association since 2009, has stepped down from the position to become chief-of-staff for Hawaii’s Governor-elect David Ige.

McCartney helped lead Hawaii’s visitor industry from economic downturn to a robust recovery with year-over-year record-breaking visitor arrivals and spending.

His extensive government experience was effective in advocating the passage of legislation that permanently set the transient accommodation tax (TAT) at 9.25%. He was also instrumental in securing and hosting the 2011 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders Week in Hawaii, which elevated the destination’s appeal as a world-class meetings destination.

Ron Williams has been selected to serve as the interim HTA president and CEO. He is the president and CEO of Atlantis Adventures and former HTA board chair.