Meticulous Management with Desarae Paulsson

Kingman’s Visitor Center is the face of Kingman, Arizona. Many times, the Visitor Center is the first introduction to the City of Kingman. Having such an important position in the advancement of the city means the work behind the scenes must be top-tier, and this is where Visitor Center Coordinator Desarae Paulsson comes in.

Though not a Kingman native, it is the only city Paulsson has planted many roots and called home. Her dedication to helping the city prosper runs deep.

Paulsson’s Purpose

Paulsson started at Kingman’s Visitor Center, as a part-time customer service representative and held her position for three years. While earning her Master of Science in Global Technology and Development-Applied International Development degree, Paulsson saw the Visitor Center Coordinator position as an opportunity to learn how her hometown develops, giving her a clear perspective of how to apply her education and help better her community. Since 2020, her learning has continued, as her workday is never the same.

Paulsson credits good communication and attention to detail for how she  manages staff and stays current with the needs of the Visitor Center. Along with making sure the Visitor Center’s building is safe and operational, Paulsson’s daily duties include:

• Maintenance - placing work orders 
• Inventory - tracking how much is available
• Procurement - ordering and vetting vendors
• Accounts Payable - paying invoices
• Logistics - ensuring items are received 
• Networking - attending meetings & strengthening vendor relationships
• Problem-solving

Paulsson also credits teamwork as the foundation for how she’s able to accomplish her daily duties. She thanks her part-time staff, economic development coworkers, and management for their support in helping her make the Visitor Center the best it can be.

When asked about her short-term goals, Paulsson said, “I want to increase sales, not only in our gift shop, but around our community. I want those who visit to have a great first impression of our city.”

Another goal is to showcase local vendors in the Visitor Center’s gift shop. She said, “I want guests to experience local-made gifts to take back to their home, so they will remember us fondly and feel like they were able to get a real treasure from our local community.”

When asked how the community can help Paulsson and the Visitor Center, she said, “If there are individuals who run a business that wants to be considered to have their products in the gift shop, I would love to have them reach out.” Paulsson’s commitment to Kingman is unwavering.

Choose Kingman

Kingman is a top tourist destination with the largest industrial park in Northern Arizona. Because of its location, businesses are potentially connected with 34M customers and suppliers. In Kingman, you can build your career, raise your children, and support your family in a safe community with the charm of an Old West town. Choose Kingman, you’ll love it here!