At CDS, real results matter—but it’s our people who make the real difference. Real People, Real Results is a monthly series that spotlights the individuals behind our work, giving you a closer look at their journey, expertise, and what drives them. This month, we bring you Candice Kalis, Senior Consultant.
With nearly a decade of experience in eDiscovery and a background in law, Candice brings a unique perspective to her role on the Public Sector Operations team. Before joining CDS, she served as an Attorney-Adviser for the Social Security Administration and worked in project management roles supporting legal review and discovery initiatives. Since joining CDS in 2018, Candice has advanced from Project Manager to Senior Consultant, where she helps local, state, and federal clients navigate complex data challenges with precision, collaboration, and a solutions-first mindset.
Known for her thoughtful problem-solving, calm under pressure, and deep commitment to client success, Candice embodies the collaborative, client-centered approach that defines CDS. Here’s your chance to get to know her better. Meet Candice Kalis.
What’s a small daily ritual that helps keep you grounded?
Morning walks. I used to take a walk at sunrise every day. I would try not to look at my phone or listen to anything. No multitasking, just walking and taking in the morning light and sounds. A daily walking meditation.
I now have a 2-year-old son. Since he’s been able to walk in shoes, at about 1 year old, he and I go on a morning sunrise walk together. The pace is a little slower, and I spend more time looking at cars and picking up rocks than when I walked solo, but it’s still one of the best parts of my day.
What do you think sets CDS apart when it comes to supporting public sector clients?
I like to think of CDS as being the bespoke tailors of eDiscovery. Plenty of vendors offer Relativity and eDiscovery services straight out of the box. They offer their way of doing things, and you take it or leave it. But at CDS, we customize EVERYTHING by default.
For example, I work with a lot of FOIA offices. When starting with a new office, I ask the FOIA Officer or Director to treat me like a new FOIA analyst and send me all their training materials, workflows, and documentation. Anything and everything related to the work they do on a daily basis. I do a deep dive, then try to create a Relativity workflow that mirrors their existing workflow, just with some improvements. The teams I’ve worked with have always been impressed that we take the time to learn “their way” before creating the “new way”.
Our public sector clients are unique. They each have their own unique missions and unique needs that deserve equally unique solutions. I’m proud that we provide that for every client team we work with, big and small.
If you could instantly master a new skill, what would it be?
Perfect pitch. My toddler currently loves my singing, but he’s going to develop an ear and taste soon, and I’d like to be ready!
If you weren’t in eDiscovery, what would your dream job be?
Historical researcher and writer. Preferably independently wealthy, so that I’d have no pressure to publish. I could dig into old archives and hunt down connections in manuscripts for days on end. I’d just need to refresh my Latin skills and pack some snacks.
Coffee or tea? And how do you take it?
Both! For coffee: cold brew, served hot (trust me), with a splash of cream. For tea: I’ve amassed quite a collection, but my favorite is a strong cup of Earl Grey with extra bergamot and honey.
What is your favorite part of working at CDS?
We help each other! I never have to worry if I meet with a client and come across a problem I haven’t encountered before. I know someone at CDS has seen something similar. I can reach out to my colleagues, pick their brains, get their advice, and come up with a plan. It both reduces the stress of day-to-day challenges and results in better, more comprehensive solutions for our clients. The CDS Brain Trust is a powerful resource!
We’re glad you took to the time to meet Candice Kalis! Look out next month as we highlight more of the real people driving real results at CDS. To learn more about CDS, reach out to us
