Kita named executive director of the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA)

According to the Subcontractors Trade Association (STA), Hank Kita began his tenure as executive director of the association following the retirement of past executive drector, Ron Berger. The STA anticipates a smooth transition following Berger's retirement, as he and Kita have been working closely since August. "Succeeding Ron Berger will be a tremendous responsibility. He was passionate about the STA and I will serve our members with that same passion. I appreciate the opportunity to advocate for our members in New York City's construction market, and will do my best to foster growth and success in their businesses," said Kita. Kita has the leadership experience to excel as the STA's new executive director. He previously served at senior vice president of the Building Trades Employers' Association (BTEA), which represents 27 trade associations with a membership of 1,700 unionized construction contractors. He managed the BTEA's initiatives in areas of safety, grant development, Minority and Women Business Enterprises (MWBE) and educational programs. Kita actively liaised and coordinated developments between the BTEA and the New York City Department of Buildings, the New York City Fire Department (FDNY) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Prior to joining the BTEA, Kita served as city administrator for the mayor's office in Plainfield, N.J. In this capacity, he supervised the activities of 575 employees in three departments, including Administration and Finance, Public Affairs and Safety. He additionally administered an operating budget of over $47 million and a capital improvement program of over $10 million. Prior to his role in the mayor's office, Kita served in various public and private sector roles, including Special Assistant to the Deputy Commissioner in New Jersey's Department of Human Services, site director at Mathematica Policy Research and planning coordinator for Union County, New Jersey's Department of Human Services. Kita holds a bachelor of arts degree in Political Science from La Salle University in Philadelphia, and a Masters of Arts degree in City and Regional Planning from The Ohio State University. He is a proud member of the New York Society of Association Executives, the American Planning Association and the General Society for Mechanics and Tradesmen. Kita is a passionate volunteer in Plainfield and Union County, serving as president of their United Way Foundation chapters. He is also vice chairman of the American Red Cross's Plainfield Chapter.