Pacific Media Group brings on new general manager for Hawaiʻi Island operations

Cyrus Johnasen joins Pacific Media Group as the general manager for the Big Island Radio Operations.

Hilo born and raised, Johnasen will manage stations KBIG, KAPA and The Beat, working with the radio team to develop strategic partnerships, and strengthen PMG’s position in the Hawaiʻi Island market. He will also play a key role with PMG’s digital division with the Big Island Now team.

In his new role, Johnasen, 32, “brings not only a deep understanding of our local communities, but also a bright, youthful energy and a truly personable approach,” said Chuck Bergson, CEO of Pacific Media Group.

“After meeting Cyrus several years ago, it was clear he was a true professional and committed to our local community,” said Jack Dugan, chief operating officer of PMG. “He is smart, understands media and local news along with the critical stewardship responsibility we have.”

Johnasen comes to PMG after serving four years for Hawaiʻi County, from 2020 to 2024, first as public information officer and later as chief of staff for Mayor Mitch Roth.

As the county’s spokesperson, Johnasen led all official communications and public messaging, helping to guide the community through critical moments such as the COVID-19 response, volcanic eruptions, wildfire emergencies and natural disaster recovery efforts.

“His passion, innovative spirit and commitment to excellence make him a breath of fresh air for our team,” Bergson said of Johnasen. “This further demonstrates Pacific Media Group’s commitment to Hawaiʻi and to hiring local people who truly understand our communities. We are confident that under Cyrus’ leadership, Pacific Media Group will continue to grow and serve Hawaiʻi Island with the highest standards of broadcasting and digital engagement.”

Johnasen said the media holds “real power.”

“It can divide us or bring us closer together,” he said. “That’s why I’m honored to step into this role with Pacific Media Group as General Manager for Hawaiʻi Island, where we recognize both the responsibility and the privilege of serving our community through meaningful storytelling.”

Johnasen added: “PMG’s commitment to local voices, cultural respect and community empowerment aligns deeply with my belief that media should serve as a bridge — uplifting the people, values and stories that make our home so special. This kuleana goes far beyond broadcasting; it’s about building trust, fostering connection and nurturing a shared sense of purpose across our island.”

Before joining PMG, Johnasen spent two years with Kamehameha Schools as the community and government relations manager where he organized, planned and executed crucial policy and advocacy campaigns as well as implemented a cross-organizational plan for a Native Hawaiian Pipeline to Leadership, which provided training and placed qualified Native Hawaiians into positions of influence with the community.

Johnasen has worked on campaigns for the former U.S. Congressman Kaialiʻi Kahele in 2016 and was a campaign manager for Tyler Dos Santos-Tam who was running for Honolulu City Council in 2018. Also in 2018, he worked as the communications director for the former Rep. Cindy Evans.

Johnasen received his Bachelor of Science degree in political science from the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo in 2017.