Kasandra Williams‘ journey with Smart City Networks began as a part-time Customer Service and Support Representative in Dallas. Intrigued by the industry and driven by a passion for understanding its larger scale, she describes her career as assembling a complex puzzle, each piece vital to delivering exceptional event experiences. This drive led her to the San Diego Convention Center as the Customer Sales and Service Manager, and now she’s the General Manager at the Atlantic City Convention Center. With unwavering support from within the company, Kasandra pursued continuous learning and skill development, setting high professional and personal benchmarks along the way. Kasandra Williams, this is your Spotlight!
Hi Kasandra! To start, what inspired your decision to move from the West Coast to the East Coast and take on this new leadership opportunity?
K: That’s simple, one word……Growth.
What are your initial priorities stepping into the GM role at the Atlantic City Convention Center?
K: My number one objective is building trust and relationships with the AGM and CEO of Visit AC. Bridging the gap.
What unique challenges do you foresee in Atlantic City, and how do you plan to approach them?
K: I would have to say working closely with the union; however, my outlook is that it’s an opportunity to be educated on the processes here and execute accordingly.
What are you most looking forward to about working with the team and the venue in Atlantic City?
K: Working collaboratively with Visit AC & the Events Teams (of course having Darrian at my side) as we have a lot of “puzzles” on the table that need to be completed.
How has your experience at the San Diego Convention Center shaped your leadership style and prepared you for this next step?
K: I owe my leadership style to both Dallas and San Diego. Dallas laid the solid foundation. I took those years of experience and knowledge and implemented them in San Diego. From there, I was able to build on those skills while gaining new ones as I worked with a larger and diverse staff. I’m intentional about being the type of leader I would want to work for and learn from. I aim to be impactful in all my dealings.
How are you approaching team integration at your new center? Are there any surprises when getting to know the East Coast crew?
K: My approach to getting to know the East Coast crew is effortless. I will be my authentic self, win them over with a few sprinkles of southern charm and hospitality, and share my experiences and knowledge I’ve gained throughout the years.
How has the move from San Diego to Atlantic City been for you personally? Smooth sailing or a few bumps along the way?
K: For the most part, it has been a smooth transition. I’m still getting settled into my place. I look forward to unwinding on my balcony, listening to the sounds of the waves.
What lifestyle differences have stood out to you between living on the West and East Coast?
K: To me, the East is a faster pace than the West; also, the weather – IT’S COLD buuurrrrrrr. However, I do look forward to experiencing the different seasons of the year again.
In what ways do you think this move will help you grow, both professionally and personally?
K: Professionally: I think being in a smaller center, it will allow me to wear all hats; from Customer Service to Operations and Data Ops. I’m looking forward to growing my technical knowledge in depth.
Personally: Believe it or not, but I’m an introvert – this transition will push me far beyond my comfort zone in being vulnerable to meet new people.
Have you discovered any favorite restaurants, hangout spots, or hidden gems in Atlantic City yet?
K: OMG YES. I learned that I live extremely close to Gardner’s Basin (2 blocks max) – a lot of fun activities like parasailing, dolphin watching, the aquarium, and a Tiki booze cruise (insert sly giggle). I’m super excited for the summer months.
Are there any hobbies or personal interests you’re excited to continue—or even explore for the first time—now that you’re living on the East Coast?
K: Yes, I’ve always LOVED the beach; I plan on incorporating beach yoga into my morning routine. YES, I live that close. Lol – Also, while in San Diego, I spent a lot of my downtime in TJ (Mexico) – now I’ll just spend that time in NYC.
We want to thank Kasandra Williams and wish her luck in her new position in Atlantic City! To read more Smart City Spotlights, check out our blog!
