Buyer Credentials
Edward Ontai: 30+ Years of Business Leadership in Hawaiʻi
Edward Ontai
Edward Ontai has deep roots to Hawai`i as both a fourth generation of immigrant ancestors and Kānaka Maoli. He is an established business leader with over 30 years of experience in finance, operations, and organizational transformation.
His career has spanned Big Six public accounting, consulting, healthcare, nonprofit, housing, and technology, including serving as President of Hawaiʻi's largest kamaʻāina IT consulting and software development company for nearly twelve years.
He founded Pinao 'Ula to bring that experience to the acquisition and long-term stewardship of local service businesses—combining disciplined financial management with a deep commitment to people and community.
Professional Experience
- President – DataHouse Consulting
- Executive Director – Catholic Charities Housing Development Corporation
- Vice President – Administration – Catholic Charities Hawaiʻi
- Administrative Director / Business Development Analyst – St. Francis Healthcare System
- Vice President – Business Development – Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific
- Manager – Healthcare Consulting Services – Deloitte & Touche
- Senior Financial Analyst – Apria Healthcare
- Senior Auditor – Ernst & Young
Education & Credentials
Loyola Marymount University
Bachelor of Science in Accounting
Kamehameha Schools
Graduate
Certified Public Accountant
CPA – Inactive status
Community & Board Service
"I see business as a calling—to enable others to be successful. Whether it's an owner transitioning into the next chapter, an employee growing in their career, or a young person discovering new opportunities, my goal is to help people and organizations flourish.
If we have the privilege of working together, I will approach your business and your legacy with the same care and seriousness I've brought to every role in my career."
— Edward C. Ontai
What Leaders Say About Edward
Testimonials from colleagues and community members
Joel Bongco
VP/CXO
"God-mazing‼️, Ed! Congratulations on your 12 years of leadership at DataHouse 👏. That's a great legacy, and it's inspiring to see you transition into this next season with such an awesome mission. The vision for Pinao ʻUla is exactly what our islands need. Praying for many blessings on this new chapter for you and the family. Cheehoo! Excited to see how God moves in 2026. 🙏💥❤️"
Othmane El Mouden
Creative Product Marketing & Product Owner
"Eddie, mahalo for everything. Working with you at DataHouse was one of the most meaningful experiences of my career. You were the first to show me the true spirit of aloha back in Honolulu, and that warmth, care, and mentorship have stayed with me ever since. I learned so much from you about leadership, purpose, and building relationships that matter. Excited for this new chapter you're stepping into. Pinao 'Ula is going to be something special. 🌺👏"
Neil Sullivan
Principal Consultant at The Table Group
"Congratulations, Eddie, and wishing you all the best as you move into this next season! You are a wonderful leader and person, and local Hawaiian businesses will be truly blessed by your contributions. I look forward to hearing about all your exciting new adventures!"
Danny Tan
Founding CTO | AI Product Engineer
"Grateful for your leadership and culture you shaped at DataHouse over the years. Excited for what's ahead with Pinao ʻUla!"
Derek Baughman
EVP, Chief Information Officer at First Hawaiian Bank
"Hey Eddie. Wishing you all the best in this new adventure. Thank you for the many years of partnership and support. Excited to see what this next phase of life holds for you."
Robert Reynolds
IT Director | Digital Transformation & AI
"Aloha Eddie, I feel very fortunate and honored to have experienced your leadership and mentorship. I'm sure many others would agree, your vision, collaboration, empathy, emotional intelligence, and drive are inspirational. Excited for your new venture Pinao 'ula - in 2026!"
Keala Peters
Community Builder, Collaborator & Communications Executive
"Eddie, happy for this new adventure and phase of life for you. Mahalo for all you've done - and continue to do - for Hawaii. You've always been one of my favorite community partners to work with!"