About Pinao 'Ula
Bringing new life to established businesses in Hawaiʻi
Our Story
Pinao 'Ula was founded to bring new life to established businesses in Hawaiʻi—businesses that have served our local communities faithfully, but need the right steward to guide them forward.
After more than three decades in finance, consulting, healthcare, nonprofit, and IT leadership, I saw a clear need: many owners of solid, "eternally profitable" service businesses were nearing retirement without a clear succession plan. At the same time, our local economy needs stable, locally owned companies that invest in our people and community.
Pinao 'Ula exists at that intersection: to acquire and operate strong local businesses, preserve their legacy, and unlock their next chapter of growth.
The Meaning Behind Pinao 'Ula
"Pinao 'Ula" refers to the Hawaiian dragonfly of royalty. In Hawaiian culture, dragonflies symbolize renewal, transformation, change, and growth. They also represent a connection to something greater—a reminder of the legacy and purpose demonstrated by past aliʻi, who led for the well-being of the Hawaiian people.
That symbolism reflects our mission:
To renew and transform businesses—not only financially and operationally, but culturally and relationally.
To honor the legacy of the owners and teams who built them.
To serve our community by keeping strong businesses locally owned and thriving.
Pinao 'Ula is more than a name; it is a picture of what we hope to bring to every organization we touch.
Mission & Calling
As a person of faith, I believe in purpose and timing. For me, business is more than transactions and spreadsheets—it is a platform to serve others, create opportunity, and steward people and resources well.
Pinao 'Ula's mission is simple:
To keep Hawai`i businesses local by transforming them for generations to come.
This work is a calling: to take the experiences and relationships I've been given and apply them to help owners, employees, and communities flourish.
Our Values
Stewardship
We treat every business as if it were our own family’s livelihood—because for many owners, that’s exactly what it is. We are committed to long-term health, not short-term gains.
Integrity
We communicate honestly, follow through on our commitments, and aim for transparency with owners, brokers, bankers, and investors.
Excellence
We bring disciplined finance, data-driven decision making, and operational rigor to everything we do—rooted in decades of management and consulting experience.
Community
We are committed to Hawaiʻi’s people and future—investing in local jobs, mentoring the next generation, and supporting organizations that serve our community.