Kobayashi Group LLC, one of Hawai‘i’s leading real estate development firms, has named Alana Kobayashi Pakkala as its new CEO. Pakkala, who has been with the company for over 22 years, steps into the role following a decision made by her brothers and business partners, B.J. and Patrick Kobayashi.
“Alana’s time has truly arrived; she is among the most talented and dedicated professionals in our industry,” said Patrick Kobayashi, chairman of the board of directors at Kobayashi Group, in a news release. “Her strong, compassionate and visionary leadership has driven unprecedented success, achieving more in the last five years than in any other period in the history of the company.”
Pakkala has been instrumental in some of the firm’s most high-profile projects, including luxury developments such as Kūki‘o Golf & Beach Club and Four Seasons Hualālai. She has also been a key player in affordable housing initiatives, including Kapolei Kai and Hale Kalele.
Since 2020, Pakkala has overseen the development of 2,067 residential units, of which 60 percent are designated affordable. The company has also launched several projects under her leadership, including Ālia at 888 Ala Moana and renovations at Kaimana Beach Hotel and Royal Lahaina Resort.
“I am truly honored to step into the role of CEO at Kobayashi Group,” Kobayashi Pakkala said in the release. “My two brothers, B.J. and Patrick, along with the invaluable guidance of our father, Bert, have grown this family-owned company since the early 1990s.
“I am excited to take the baton and lead the next phase of our journey. I am deeply grateful for what we have achieved and proud of what we have developed over the years. With a firm commitment to creating best-in-class, sustainable and innovative projects, I look forward to leading our talented team as we help shape the future of Hawai‘i’s communities, creating exceptional spaces where residents and businesses can thrive.”
“We anticipate launching an additional $1.8 billion in real estate development under her leadership over the next two years,” B.J. Kobayashi, co-founder, senior partner and board member of Kobayashi Group, said in the release. “Her impact on the industry is profound [and] Patrick and I couldn’t be prouder of her exceptional work.”
