Mayors Suarez and Lago, Alongside Kandji CEO Adam Pettit, Open Kandji’s New Miami Office

On March 4, 2025, Kandji marked a significant milestone with the triumphant opening of its East Coast headquarters in Miami. This event highlighted Kandji’s expansion and Miami’s emergence as a technology hub, featuring speeches from key figures including Sylvia LePodevin, Kandji’s Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), CEO Adam Pettit, Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago, and Miami Mayor Francis Suarez.

Kandji’s Warm Reception in Miami

Sylvia LePodevin, Kandji’s CMO, expressed enthusiasm for the company’s new location.

“We are so, so excited to be here in this city. So much energy, so much growth. It’s a hub for technology innovation, and we are so excited to be part of that.”

She thanked Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago, Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, and James Comstum, Miami-Dade County’s Director of Economic Development, representing County Mayor Daniela Villanueva, for their presence.

LePodevin acknowledged the warm welcome from Miami’s community, crediting the Beacon Council, Creative Hub, Miami-Dade College, Emerge, and Refresh for their support.

She reported that Kandji now employs nearly 100 individuals in its Miami office and is actively recruiting “very, very passionate individuals who are eager to make an impact.”

Additionally, she highlighted Kandji’s recent recognition as one of Forbes’ 2025 Best Startup Employers.

“We’re really passionate about empowering our team, helping them grow as we grow.”

Exclusive Interview with Sylvia LePodevin, CMO of Kandji: Pioneering Miami Tech Expansion & Innovation

Kandji’s Ambitious Vision for Miami

CEO Adam Pettit reinforced Kandji’s dedication to Miami.

“We’re all in in Miami. We’re all in.”

He detailed the company’s hiring efforts over the past eight months, noting a current staff of about 100 employees with plans to expand to “hundreds and eventually thousands of jobs” in the market. Pettit outlined Kandji’s goal to become a “top-tier technology employer in this market” and to “transform the market and change the way people think about Miami.” He expressed gratitude to the community and local leaders, passing the microphone to Mayors Lago and Suarez.

Coral Gables’ Support and Leadership

Coral Gables Mayor Vince Lago brought a personal perspective, noting his lifelong friendship with Mayor Suarez.

“I’ve known this guy since we were two years old; we went to preschool together.”

He reflected on their shared journey.

I would have thought that 30 years later, two best friends would end up being the mayor of one of the most important cities in Miami.”

Lago celebrated Kandji’s establishment, attributing Miami’s tech-friendly environment to Suarez’s leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.

He described Coral Gables as a “smart city USA,” a premier destination under 75,000 residents, welcoming “innovation” and exceptional talent. Lago presented Kandji with a city seal, urging them to display it as a symbol of support.

“The city backs Kandji 110%. We’re blessed to have you here.”

Miami’s Digital Economy Transition

Miami Mayor Francis Suarez outlined the city’s strategic shift.

“We’re ready to make that transition… from an industrial economy into a digital economy.”

He described this evolution as a “15-year overnight success story.” Suarez recalled his viral response to a tweet suggesting Silicon Valley relocate to Miami.

“How can I help?”

This gained traction as New York rejected Amazon’s HQ2 and California lost Elon Musk.

“We dare to be different… because we realize that technology is going to define the future. That is inescapable, it is inevitable, and it is indisputable.”

Suarez highlighted Miami’s goal to create an ecosystem prioritizing “the best ROT [Return on Time],” protecting technology, privacy, and safety while fostering a fulfilled life. He praised the city’s beauty, a sentiment he feels upon returning from global travels. Concluding with an anecdote, he mentioned a Middle Eastern official asking.

“What’s the difference between Dallas and Miami?”

He predicted rapid growth for Kandji, projecting an increase from 100 to potentially 500 employees, positioning the company as a key driver of Miami’s future.

Conclusion

The triumphant opening of Kandji’s Miami East Coast headquarters on March 4, 2025, underscores the company’s expansion and Miami’s rise as a technology innovation hub. With nearly 100 employees, ambitious hiring goals, and recognition as a top startup employer, Kandji is set to thrive. Supported by local leaders and community partners, this event solidifies Miami’s transition to a digital economy. Kandji is playing a pivotal role in transforming the region’s technological landscape.