COO Kehaul discusses leadership training and staffing strategies for Hawaiian values

In a recent meeting of the Committee on Budget and Finance of the OHA Board of Trustees, discussions centered around enhancing leadership training and organizational culture within the agency. The focus was on creating a workplace that embodies Hawaiian values, emphasizing emotional intelligence and collective leadership practices.

The leadership training initiative aims to include not only the executive team but also all directors and managers, fostering a shared understanding of leadership across the organization. The goal is to cultivate an environment that resonates with the community's values, ultimately positioning the agency as an employer of choice. The discussions highlighted the importance of integrating telework options and competitive salaries as part of this cultural shift.

Plans for organizational gatherings were also a key topic. The agency is set to host three major events this year, with the first scheduled for July. These gatherings are designed to strengthen connections among staff and promote a sense of unity. The speaker expressed a desire to incorporate learning opportunities into these events, ensuring that they serve both celebratory and educational purposes.

Budget considerations were addressed, particularly regarding travel costs and the need for temporary staff. The distinction between temporary and interim staff was clarified, with temporary staff being contracted for specific roles while interim staff fill vacant positions. The speaker noted that the budget for temporary staff was initially created to support a reorganization in 2021, but there are concerns about its sustainability moving forward.

As the meeting concluded, the speaker emphasized the importance of maintaining high-quality work among temporary staff, advocating for their opportunity to compete for permanent positions. This approach reflects a commitment to recognizing and nurturing talent within the organization.

The discussions at this meeting underscore a proactive approach to leadership development and organizational cohesion, setting the stage for a more inclusive and culturally aligned workplace in the future.