The state agency that will assume governance and management responsibility over Mauna Kea in 2028 has named a former visitor industry leader as its first executive director.

The Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority is scheduled to approve the appointment of John De Fries at a meeting Thursday. De Fries is a former president and chief executive officer of the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

He previously served as executive director of the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association and led the Department of Research and Development for the County of Hawaii.

“We are confident that Mr. De Fries has the experience and skills to effectively lead us through this period of transition where the Mauna is at the center of discussions, decisions and actions,” John Komeiji, chair of the Mauna Kea oversight authority, said in a press release Friday.

The Mauna Kea Stewardship and Oversight Authority was established by the state through a 2022 act. In July 2023 it began a five-year governance transition period of all general leases, easement and permits from the the University of Hawaii and the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.

The summit of Mauna Kea on the island of Hawaii is home to the world’s largest astronomical observatory. The telescopes are operated by 12 separate nonprofit observatories.

It also has been the site of protests with many Native Hawaiians who consider the mauna sacred seeking to bar the construction of the Thirty Meter Telescope.