Since its inception in 1921, HPM Building Supply has been synonymous with excellence, innovation, and customer-centric services. Michael “Mike” Fujimoto, who announced his retirement from HPM Building Supply on January 1, 2024, played an instrumental role in forging this identity and ensuring HPM Building Supply’s success for over 47 years.
He will retain the title of Chairman Emeritus of the board of directors. At the same time, the company has promoted Jason Fujimoto to Chairman & CEO and Adam Bauer to President & COO.
Grand Opening of HPM's first Kitchen & Bath Showroom in 1998 which is now known as the HPM Hilo Home Design Center
A Legacy of Leadership: Celebrating Mike’s Achievements
Mike’s journey with HPM Building Supply began in 1977 as an executive assistant to his father, Robert 'Bobby Fujimoto, and rose through the ranks to become president by 1992, a position he held until 2016. Mike’s tenure was marked by exemplary leadership and strategic decision-making, particularly during the economic hardship of the Great Financial Crisis in 2008-2010. He led the company to emerge stronger, validating his vision and innovative thinking.
Under Mike’s stewardship, HPM expanded beyond Hawai‘i Island to O‘ahu and Kaua‘i, and in 2006, he spearheaded the transition to a 100% employee-owned company through its ESOP program. Mike also ushered the company into the digital age by establishing a networked computer system and launching HPM’s Kitchen & Bath Home Design Center, amongst many other noteworthy accomplishments.
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Key Milestones at HPM 1977: Mike began full-time employment as an executive assistant to his father, Robert 'Bobby' Fujimoto, installed the ESOP, and completed the Wood Protection Co. lumber treatment facility. |
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Mike’s influence and inspirational leadership go beyond HPM. His commitment to serving the community is evident in his numerous recognitions and active participation on various boards. His stellar business and community welfare contributions have earned him a well-deserved reputation. Here are some of the accolades and positions that demonstrate his profound impact on the community: Mike's Awards 1999: Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Finalist Current Boards Hawai‘i Planing Mill, Ltd. dba HPM Building Supply - Chairman Emeritus |
Under Mike's leadership, HPM was the first to manufacture wall panels in Hawai'i in 2010
Mahalo Nui Loa, A Hui Hou
As we bid a fond farewell to Mike, we are grateful for his tireless dedication to HPM Building Supply and the indelible mark he leaves on the building supply industry. His legacy will undoubtedly inspire us and continue to drive HPM’s growth. We are thankful for his leadership and wish him all the best as he embarks on this new retirement chapter.
From all of us at HPM Building Supply, its management, and our 570+ employee-owners, we send aloha and mahalo to Mike Fujimoto! Here’s to a remarkable journey, and wishing Mike a joy-filled and restful retirement with his wife, Thuy Fujimoto.
Mike Fujimoto, Robert Fujimoto and Jason Fujimoto - Generational leaders of HPM Building Supply