Guam-born finance specialist Sean Perez has assumed the role of finance director at Hawai‘i Community Lending (HCL), bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to community development. With a passion for fostering financial stability and housing opportunities, Perez aims to drive transformative change for Native Hawaiian families. His background spans over eight years in nonprofit and private sector financial management, equipping him with the expertise needed to lead HCL’s financial operations and strategic initiatives.

Elevating Financial Leadership for a Thriving Hawaiian Community

New Director Aims to Build Strong Foundations

Sean Perez, now residing in Honolulu, is poised to make significant contributions to the Native Hawaiian community through his new role at Hawai‘i Community Lending. Born in Tamuning, Guam, Perez brings a unique perspective shaped by his diverse life experiences. From his early days in Oxnard, California, where he attended school and community college, to his service in the Air Force Reserves as an aircrew flight equipment technician, Perez has always been driven by a desire to serve and support others.His journey continued when he returned to Guam to pursue higher education, earning a degree in finance and economics before obtaining a Master’s in Business Administration. Now, as the finance director at HCL, Perez is dedicated to helping families achieve homeownership and financial security. He finds immense satisfaction in hearing about the success stories of new homes being built and finding their way into deserving hands. This mission deeply resonates with his personal values and professional aspirations.

Strategic Vision for Financial Growth and Compliance

In his new position, Perez will oversee a broad range of financial responsibilities, including managing HCL’s finances, accounting, compliance, and information technology. Collaborating closely with HCL Executive Director Jeff Gilbreath and supervising three division managers, Perez aims to ensure that the organization operates efficiently and effectively. His extensive background in nonprofit financial management, particularly from his time as director of operations at the Hawai‘i State Bar Association, has prepared him well for this challenge.Perez’s experience extends across various industries, including legal, social services, health, telecommunications, and government sectors. He has worked with the US Attorney’s Office of Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, gaining valuable insights into grants management, human resources, and information technology. This diverse expertise positions him to implement innovative solutions and streamline processes within HCL, ultimately enhancing the organization’s ability to serve its community.

Personal Commitment to Community and Family

Beyond his professional achievements, Perez is committed to building a fulfilling personal life on O‘ahu. He enjoys spending quality time with his fiancée and toddler son, engaging in outdoor activities like fishing and surfing during his leisure hours. This balance between work and family life reflects his holistic approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of both professional success and personal fulfillment.Perez’s dedication to creating new success stories at HCL underscores his belief in the power of community-driven initiatives. He looks forward to working alongside his colleagues to achieve great things and making a lasting impact on the lives of Native Hawaiian families. Through his leadership, HCL is poised to continue its mission of providing essential financial services and support to those who need it most.