Business Leaders On The Move In Hawaii

December 14, 2011
By Chris Fleck

Christopher A. McNally, Ph.D. has joined Chaminade University as an associate professor of political economy. McNally will continue as a nonresident fellow at the East-West Center. His research focuses on comparative capitalisms, especially the nature and logic of China’s capitalist transition, and he is working on a book project that studies the implications of China’s capitalist re-emergence on the global order.

Star-Nani Peralta has been welcomed by Legends in Concert Waikiki as head of marketing and sales. Peralta brings more than 30 years of experience in marketing, sales, advertising, public relations and the tourism industry to her new position. Most recently, Peralta served as senior director of sales and marketing for Hilo Hattie, where she was responsible for kama’aina and westbound marketing sales. Previously, Peralta was with Royal of Hawaii, where she managed ground tour operations and visitor services.

Leiomalama Desha has been promoted by Hawaii Government Employees Association (HGEA) to deputy executive director of field services. Desha was most recently executive assistant to the executive director and field services officer. In her new role, she will be responsible for overseeing all field operations and field services officers who represent HGEA members in the seven different bargaining units. Prior to joining HGEA, she was a manager of the Hickam Red Cross Service Center and director of the Military Service CentersHawaii chapter.

Emalia Pietsch has been appointed to the Women’s Fund of Hawaii board. Pietsch currently works in the retail leasing services division at Colliers Monroe Friedlander Inc. Women’s Fund of Hawaii is a grantmaking organization that focuses on effecting lasting social change through empowering women and girls in Hawaii.