Advertiser names chief of new media

Advertiser Staff

Dexter Suzuki said the Internet has moved into a new phase.

Suzuki will be responsible for developing online and other new media products. He also will be involved in development of Hawaii.com, the recently announced venture between Gannett Co. Inc. and Stephens Media Group, formerly known as Donrey Media Group, to develop and operate the tourism and entertainment Web site about the Islands.

Suzuki will report to Mark Adkins, The Advertiser's senior vice president for marketing.

Michael J. Fisch, president and publisher of The Advertiser, announced Suzuki's appointment yesterday.

"New media development is a critical strategic area of development for our company and I am thrilled to have a person of Dexter's professionalism join our executive team," Fisch said.

Suzuki worked for Ala Moana for 10 years in various marketing positions. Previously, he served as a vice president for HonFed Bank, a consultant for Berman Weiler Associates, an executive vice president for the Retail Merchants of Hawai'i for the Chamber of Commerce, and an administrative assistant for former Gov. George Ariyoshi.

He was a public school teacher from 1974 to 1979.

"The Internet has now matured into its second cycle of development," Suzuki said. "We must move from entertainment to real, two-way communication; fast and simple. There must be a synergy created between traditionally accepted communication vehicles like the newspaper and the interactive nature of the Internet."

Suzuki, who lives in 'Aiea, graduated from the University of Hawai'i and McKinley High School.