Daniel K. Nahoopii joins JLL’s Global Tourism & Destination Advisory Group

CHICAGO, May 22, 2025 – JLL announced today that Daniel K. Nahoopii has joined the JLL Global Tourism & Destination Advisory Group. With extensive experience in strategic tourism research and sustainable destination management, Nahoopii will play a key role in advancing JLL's mission to develop implementable, future-focused strategies that enhance communities and economies worldwide.

"I am honored to join JLL and collaborate with a team that is dedicated to delivering transformative, actionable solutions for destinations," said Nahoopii. "JLL's commitment to sustainable tourism, economic development and community well-being align perfectly with my passion for responsible destination stewardship driven by high-quality data and the insights it provides. I look forward to contributing to meaningful strategies that ensure long-term resilience for our clients and the tourism industry as a whole."

Nahoopii’s remarkable leadership as the former Interim President & CEO and Chief Administrative Officer of the Hawaii Tourism Authority set a high bar for regenerative tourism. During his tenure, he navigated the agency through a pivotal transition, managing a $70 million annual budget while spearheading efforts to rebuild international tourism markets and implement a bold revitalization strategy following the Maui wildfires. His focus on destination stewardship redefined Hawaii’s tourism landscape, blending cultural preservation with economic renewal.

"Daniel brings invaluable expertise in data-informed destination strategies that will significantly enhance our advisory capabilities," said Dan Fenton, Managing Director and the practice lead of JLL's Global Tourism & Destination Advisory Group. "His proven track record in the utilization of data and research to navigate complex market challenges perfectly complements our team’s approach to creating resilient destinations and boldly serving our clients. Daniel's unique perspective, particularly in balancing tourism growth with community values, will be instrumental as we help destinations worldwide navigate the evolving landscape of global tourism. Our entire team is enthusiastically looking forward to Daniel joining us.”

Prior to HTA, Nahoopii served as Executive Vice President at SMS Research & Marketing Services, where he spearheaded tourism intelligence initiatives, developed national and international tourism research programs and provided key advisory services for community policy development. His comprehensive background in research methodology, strategic planning, and operational oversight will strengthen JLL's ability to deliver customized solutions that address the unique challenges facing destinations today.

The JLL Global Tourism & Destination Advisory Group remains committed to empowering destinations with innovative strategies that balance economic development with environmental sustainability and community wellbeing. By integrating Nahoopii's expertise with JLL's proprietary assessment tools and global insights, the team will continue to provide clients with innovative approaches to destination development that foster long-term prosperity and resilience.

For more information on JLL and its Global Tourism & Destination Advisory Group, visit https://www.us.jll.com/en/solutions/hotels-and-hospitality-tourism-and-destinations.

JLL's Global Tourism & Destination Advisory Group focuses on providing future looking advice and strategies for tourism and destination development. We work with destinations and tourism assets of all sizes to create implementable, sustainable solutions that promote economic growth, protect the environment, and enhance community well-being

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