"Jeff has impeccable management and communication experience, and terrific people skills," Hannemann said. When the mayor is out of town, the managing director takes over as the city's top official. The job pays $112,455 a year.

Born and raised in Honolulu, Coelho is a graduate of Farrington High School. He studied electronics at Honolulu Community College and received computer training in the Army Reserve, city officials said.

Coelho said he looks forward to working with Hannemann whom he said focuses on finding solutions to problems. "I'm a firm believer that anything is possible if you work together," Coelho said.

In 2002, Coelho ran against City Councilwoman Barbara Marshall, finishing last in a field of five. The nomination must be confirmed by the City Council.

Marshall said she was surprised by the appointment of the radio executive to the top aide job and had not heard that he was being considered for the post. "I look forward to learning more about Mr. Coelho's qualifications and intent as managing director," she said.

Coelho, of Kailua, also served two terms on the Hawai'i Convention Center Authority.

Hannemann has done a radio show with Coelho in the past.

Earlier, Hannemann had named businessman John Reed to the post. Reed later withdrew after questions were raised about a lawsuit in which three women accused Reed of making racially offensive comments at a company he headed in California.

Reed denied the allegations, and said the suit was settled for less than 15 percent of the damages sought by the plaintiffs, without any admission of wrongdoing.