HONOLULU – Governor Linda Lingle has named Gordon Ito as insurance commissioner for the Hawai`i State Insurance Division, effective July 20.
As head of the Insurance Division, Ito will oversee the insurance industry in the State of Hawai`i, which writes $4.5 billion in premiums, and includes 1,000 insurance companies and 40,000 insurance agents.
“We are fortunate to have Gordon Ito accept the important position of Insurance Commissioner,” said Governor Lingle. “Mr. Ito has been with the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs for more than 17 years, and is highly experienced in all areas of insurance.”
Ito has served as chief deputy insurance commissioner since 2000. Prior to that, he worked as the supervising staff attorney of the Insurance Division from 1993 – 2000.
“The Insurance Division is faced with many challenges due to the current economic climate, healthcare reform, and the financial services reform on the horizon,” said Ito. “Fortunately, we have an excellent and dedicated staff that has risen to the challenges over the years and will continue to do so for the people of Hawai`i.”
Ito earned an undergraduate degree in business administration from the University of Hawai`i, and a law degree from the William S. Richardson School of Law.
Submitted by DCCA’s Christine Hirasa