Kami’s career in finance and accounting began with a personal interest in managing his own investments and taxes. After earning a bachelor's degree in English from Hunter College, he studied the fundamentals of accounting online before securing a bookkeeping position at a small accounting firm, supporting many clients in the hospitality industry, including Empowered in its early years. Kami soon advanced to a new role as Assistant Controller in the accounting department at a nationwide corporate wholesaler, managing cash flow and financial reporting for 12 locations. Now back at Empowered as our in-house finance manager, Kami's financial expertise complements his passion for people and hospitality. Outside of work, Kami is pursuing an MBA in Accountancy at Baruch College’s Zicklin School of Business.

What is your ideal restaurant experience?

My ideal restaurant experience is sharing several dishes family style with close friends. Relaxed music, calm lighting. I want to feel like I’m at home.

What does "creating workplaces where people thrive" mean to you?

Creating an environment where questions are welcome, goals are clear, and feedback is encouraged in all directions — a workplace where people are free and encouraged to grow and expand from where they started.