Marie Kumabe
Principal/Owner
Kumabe HR

Marie Kumabe is a Mentor Hawaii Cohort 10 mentor. Learn more about the program here.

About Marie

Marie Kumabe is Principal and Owner of Kumabe HR and oversees the Executive Recruitment and Human Resource Consulting Division.

Marie comes with 25 years of experience in business, with 15 years specifically dedicated to executive search, human resource consulting and staffing. Her impressive credentials, exceptional skill and commitment to the success of her clients has resulted in a loyal and growing base of clients who trust her to execute their human resources and executive search needs discreetly and effectively. Marie is a recognized leader in Hawaii in the field of staffing and human resources as is demonstrated by her thriving firm and her appointment as the current Faculty Director for the Masters of Human Resources Management program at the Shidler College of Business at the University of Hawaii.

Throughout her career, Marie has always made giving back to community a top priority, serving on the board of directors of several community organizations. She currently serves on the Board for Boys & Girls Club of Maui, the University of Hawaii’s Travel Industry Management Alumni Association, Nuuanu YMCA and as a Troop Leader for Girl Scouts of Hawaii.
Marie earned her undergraduate degree in International Business from UCLA and a Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management.

Question and Answer with Marie

What is your preferred communication style when mentoring (in-person, video conference, phone, informal check-ins, structured meetings, etc.)?
Very flexible to what works best for my Mentee.

Why do you want to become a mentor in this program?
I truly enjoy interacting with individuals that are career and community driven to provide thoughts or guidance where I am able.

What specific skills, knowledge or experience can you share with your mentee?
Human Resource/Career Planning & Development.

Not technology. 🙂

What are your expectations for a mentor-mentee relationship?
I like to set up a consistent day and time for meetings. I am happy to work around my Mentee’s schedule since I am quite flexible. I find this helps us stay on track but we can be flexible with any needed reschedules.

I also like to keep in touch with my Mentees post-formal program.

How do you approach problem-solving and conflict resolution?
Thankfully, I haven’t had any issues in this area—but generally by discussing things directly and seeking understanding.

How do you envision success for your mentee, and how will you measure it during the program?
We usually agree to what they are looking to get out of the mentorship and check in during our time together on progress.