Gov. David Ige has appointed Edmund Hyun as the interim chair of the Hawaii Paroling Authority.

Hyun, whose appointment is still subject to Senate confirmation, began his four-year tenure Aug. 1, after the term of his predecessor, Bert Matsuoka, expired.

Hyun has a long history in the state’s correctional system — dating back to 1972, when he began his career as an officer at the Hawaii Youth Correctional Facility. He then worked for 21 years as the court unit supervisor at the Oahu Community Correctional Center‘s Intake Service Center before moving on to become the branch manager of the Hawaii Intake Service Center on the Big Island.

“Fred’s extensive knowledge and years of experience in criminal justice and public safety provide a solid foundation for his leadership of the Hawai’i Paroling Authority,” Ige said in a statement. “The board is tasked with helping people gradually reenter their communities as law abiding citizens. I know Fred will continue efforts to reduce recidivism while promoting public safety for all of Hawaii’s citizens.”