Alfred grace to retire as polynesian cultural center president; jarod hester named successor

April 14, 2026 – Lā‘ie, Hawai‘i – The Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) announced that President and Chief Executive Officer P. Alfred Grace will retire effective May 1, 2026, after more than a decade in the role.

Grace, 65, is the longest-serving president and CEO in PCC history and the only leader to have begun his career at the Center as a BYU–Hawaii student worker. He was appointed president in 2013 after previously serving in senior leadership roles including chief operating officer and vice president of sales and marketing.

The PCC Board of Directors has named Jarod Hester, currently chief financial officer and chief operating officer, as Grace’s successor, effective May 1. A successor for Hester’s current roles has not yet been announced.

A native of New Zealand, Grace plans to remain in Lāʻie focusing on family, community service, and future volunteer opportunities.

“I truly and deeply love the Polynesian Cultural Center,” Grace said. “I have no doubt Jarod will do a fine job.”

Hester, also from New Zealand, joined PCC in 2013 and was named chief financial officer in 2017, later adding chief operating officer responsibilities. Prior to PCC, he served in financial leadership roles in the Pacific region.

“I’m honored by the trust placed in me and grateful for President Grace’s leadership. I look forward to building on that strong foundation and continuing to support our students and share Polynesia’s cultures with the world,” said Hester.

P. Alfred Grace, President and CEO of the Polynesian Cultural Center, will retire May 1, 2026, after serving since 2013.

Jarod Hester, incoming President and CEO of the Polynesian Cultural Center, effective May 1, 2026; currently serves as chief financial officer and chief operating officer.

ABOUT POLYNESIAN CULTURAL CENTER 

Located on O‘ahu’s beautiful North Shore, the Polynesian Cultural Center (PCC) is the only cultural attraction of its kind in the world and a favorite of both locals and visitors to Hawai‘i. An engaging, interactive celebration showcasing the people, culture, arts and crafts of Polynesia, the PCC has entertained millions of visitors from around the world since opening in 1963. A non-profit organization, 100 percent of PCC’s revenue goes to daily operations and to support the education of its student-employees from neighboring Brigham Young University-Hawaii. For more information, visit www.Polynesia.com.

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