Gregory M. Sato

Gregory M. Sato is Of Counsel at Kobayashi Sugita & Goda, LLP and represents management in labor and employment law. His practice addresses workplace disputes, employment counseling, compliance concerns, and other matters affecting employers. He advises organizations on legal issues that require an understanding of both employment law and the operational decisions businesses make when managing employees and workplace risk.

Sato studied History at the University of Southern California and later completed a joint Masters of Management and Juris Doctor program through Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management and School of Law. That combined business and legal education provides a foundation for analyzing employment issues in the broader context of management, organizational strategy, and commercial decision-making. This background supports Sato’s ability to analyze legal and factual issues carefully, communicate options clearly, and approach client matters with practical judgment.

He has built a long practice representing management and regularly speaks on labor and employment topics. His professional background also includes leadership and community involvement, while his legal work requires close attention to workplace policies, disputes, investigations, and the changing legal obligations that employers face. Across these matters, Sato focuses on understanding the record, identifying the legal issues that matter most, and helping clients move through the relevant legal process with a clear strategy.

Gregory M. Sato is recognized in professional publications and organizations for labor and employment work and has served as a frequent speaker on workplace law. His combination of legal and management training supports advice that connects employment requirements with practical business considerations. The practice reflects a practical approach to legal service, with attention to the facts, applicable law, and the decisions clients must make as a matter progresses.

Law Office Affiliations

• Of Counsel, Kobayashi Sugita & Goda, LLP
• Member, Hawaii State Bar Association
• Director, Hawaii Justice Foundation
• Member, Local Rules Committee for the United States District Court of Hawai’i (1988-1991)
• Hearing Officer, Hawaii Office of Disciplinary Counsel
• Director, President and Chair, Hawaii and State Council for the Society for Human Resource Management
• Director, Winners at Work
• Deacon and Trustee, Central Union Church
• Chair, Hawai’i Public Employees Health Trust Fund (1999-2003)
• Director, Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii (2004-2006)
• Chair, Hawai’i Public Radio Board of Directors (2005-2011)
• Vice President, Hawaii Girl Scouts (2007-2011)
• Director, Hawaiian Educational Council
• Director, Arcadia Retirement Residence
• Director, Hanahau’oli School
• Member, FBI Citizens’ Academy (2006)

Licensed State

• Hawaii

Education

• Northwestern University
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Northwestern University
  Master of Management
• University of Southern California
  Bachelor’s Degree in History

Awards & Badges