THE TEAM

Patti Ann Kawehilani Tancayo
President & CEO

Patti Tancayo, a proud Native Hawaiian born and raised on Molokaʻi, grew up on her great-grandfather’s homestead, which was later succeeded by her father. Her upbringing on Hawaiian Home Lands instilled in her a deep connection to the ʻāina and a firsthand understanding of the challenges homesteaders face. Having spent decades on the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) waitlist herself, Patti brings an authentic and empathetic perspective to the struggles many Native Hawaiians endure on their journey to securing homestead awards.

With over 35 years of experience in affordable housing development, Patti has successfully led projects that have generated more than $500 million in investments across Hawaiʻi. Her expertise spans single-family homes, multi-family developments, and large-scale community initiatives, demonstrating her ability to bring complex projects to fruition.

As President and CEO of Kalanianaʻole Development, Patti is committed to providing affordable housing solutions that go beyond awarding leases. She views the Hawaiian Home Lands Act as a foundation for preserving Native Hawaiian culture, creating economic opportunities, and fostering a thriving lāhui. Patti leads her company with the core Hawaiian values of hana pono (hard work), hoʻihi (respect), and aloha, embodying her lifelong dedication to uplifting Native Hawaiian communities and building a stronger future for generations to come.

Nan Chul Shin
Chairman of the Board

Nan Chul Shin is the founder and visionary leader of Nan Inc., one of Hawai‘i’s largest and most prominent construction firms, as well as the new owner of Grace Pacific. Since establishing Nan Inc. in 1990 after moving to Hawai‘i from South Korea, he has transformed the company into a cornerstone of the state’s construction industry, achieving an impressive bonding capacity of $3.5 billion. Under his leadership, Nan Inc. has built a legacy of excellence and innovation, completing a diverse portfolio of projects ranging from commercial and residential developments to large-scale public works.

With substantial resources and technical expertise, Nan Inc. has managed over 30 indefinite-quantity contracts, seamlessly executing multiple projects across various locations. The company is renowned for delivering multi-million-dollar renovations, implementing advanced technological upgrades, and preserving historic structures. Its expertise in design-build projects ensures a collaborative approach, integrating architects and design consultants early in the process to prevent conflicts, maintain quality, and strengthen partnerships across Hawai‘i and the Pacific.

Under Nan Chul Shin’s stewardship, Nan Inc. has grown into Hawai‘i’s largest locally owned and operated general contractor, known for tackling even the most complex projects. Specializing in preconstruction, general contracting, and design-build services, the company consistently delivers exceptional results with integrity. Beyond its commitment to clients, Nan Inc. emphasizes creating a safe, rewarding, and growth-focused environment for its employees, further cementing its leadership in Hawai‘i’s construction and development sectors.

Christian O’Connor
Director of Development

Christian O’Connor brings extensive expertise from a dynamic career spanning commercial, industrial, housing, and community development. Most recently, as Regional Vice President of Development at The Michaels Organization, he oversaw all aspects of the development cycle, with a particular focus on the company’s portfolio in Hawaiʻi.

At Coastal Rim Properties in Honolulu, Christian managed a $72 million affordable LIHTC residential tower and directed major projects encompassing 861 residential units. During his tenure at Kamehameha Schools, he played a pivotal role in implementing the Our Kakaʻako Master Plan, which brought to life transformative projects like the SALT Shopping Center and the Kakaʻako Night Market, fostering community engagement and revitalizing the neighborhood.

Over the past four years, Christian has contributed to the development of projects totaling 2,141 residential units, valued at approximately $1.12 billion. His career highlights also include managing complex negotiations and contractual arrangements worth an estimated $1 billion. A graduate of the University of Virginia, Christian’s academic foundation has been instrumental in shaping his professional success.

Wyeth Matsubara
Director of  Acquisitions

Wyeth Matsubara, an accomplished graduate of the University of Hartford and California Western School of Law, joined Nan Inc. in 2015 as a Business Development Manager, while also contributing to the company’s Legal team. His exceptional skills and dedication earned him a promotion to Vice President in 2018. In this role, Wyeth oversees estimating, legal management, protest resolutions, and the development and implementation of financing strategies.

Wyeth's expertise in business strategy, contracts, and negotiations is a cornerstone of both project execution and corporate decision-making. His active involvement in public relations has been instrumental in strengthening Nan Inc.’s community engagement and external relationships. With his well-rounded approach and versatile skill set, Wyeth is a vital member of the team and a driving force behind the company’s continued success.

Sun-Ik Ham
Director of Architectural Planning & Design

Sun-Ik Ham is a highly accomplished architect with a distinguished academic and professional background. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Berkeley, and a Master’s in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania. His career includes a remarkable tenure at Samsung Construction, where he served as lead project manager for the CEO of Samsung, demonstrating his exceptional ability to manage and execute large-scale, high-profile projects.

At Nan Inc., Sun-Ik played a key role in the development of The Park on Keeaumoku, seamlessly blending aesthetic excellence with functional design. Renowned for his expertise in creating beautiful and affordable homes, Sun-Ik integrates innovative architectural practices with practical, sustainable living solutions. His contributions are instrumental in advancing affordable housing initiatives in Hawai‘i, shaping communities with thoughtful and inspiring design.