Ray Soon, former director of the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and vice president of community relations at Kamehameha Schools is joining Mayor Kirk Caldwell’s adminstration as chief of staff.

Caldwell’s office announced the appointment today in a news release.

“With Ray’s accomplished background, collaborative approach, and proven commitment to serving the people of the City and County of Honolulu, I am extremely fortunate to have him join my administration as chief of staff,” Caldwell said.

Soon, president of the consulting firm Solutions Pacific, starts Sept. 3 and will make $125,000 a year, Caldwell’s office said.

A graduate of Kalani High School, Soon has a bachelor’s degree in regional planning from the University of Hawaii at Manoa and a master’s degree in city planning from Harvard University. 

The appointment is not subject to confirmation by the City Council.