HONOLULU — With Hawaii Symphony Orchestra’s season-opening weekend deemed a success, the HSO board of directors announced on Monday that current president and CEO, Dave Moss, will resign at the end of the year.

Beginning immediately, the organization announced it will undergo a thorough search process with internal and external stakeholders, according to a release.

Moss stepped into his current position in March 2020, just as the COVID-19 pandemic was in full swing and the orchestra faced financial challenges and a decline in audience numbers. Faced with these obstacles, Moss worked to strengthen HSO’s finances, increased both foundational and individual support, diversified programming, developed more community-based opportunities outside of the concert hall, and, most notably, helped secure Dane Lam as the first music director and conductor in the organization’s history.

“Dave has established an incredible legacy by growing the symphony’s impact and relevance in our community. Our board remains committed to the HSO, its musicians and our community and will begin our search to replace him immediately,” said Paul Kosasa, chair of the board of directors of HSO, in the release.

“We are truly grateful for what Dave has done and the leadership he has shown. While we are sad to see him leave, we wish Dave and his family all the best in their future endeavors,” said Kosasa.

Hailing from Brisbane, Australia, Lam stepped into his new role with HSO in July 2023.

“Thanks to the work of Dave and many, many other people in our community, the HSO has never been stronger, both artistically and financially,” said Lam. “We remain committed to serving our community through music and to continue building on our work as a cultural cornerstone of Hawaii. We have an incredible team at the HSO of dynamic staff, board members and volunteers to guarantee our continued success during this important transition.”

Most recently named one of Hawaii’s Most Admired Leaders by “Pacific Business News” and recognized by “Pacific Edge Magazine” with their Publishers Choice Award, Moss said, “Working with our board, musicians, staff, donors, and community members has been one of the most rewarding opportunities in my career, and I leave here forever impacted by this community and the relationships developed for the symphony.

“While I made the difficult decision to accept a new position on the continent and pursue new opportunities for my family with our pending move, I am committed to ensuring continued success through this transition,” said Moss.

Moss’s last day with HSO will be Dec. 31, 2023.

Sarah Yamanaka covers events, environmental and community news for Spectrum News Hawaii. She can be reached at sarah.yamanaka@charter.com.