Our March B2B networking event was extra special, as our members gathered at Casabella to farewell our General Manager of 12 years, Cheryl Adamson, and welcome her replacement, Adriana Avendaño Christie.
Cheryl’s heart, energy and leadership has shaped Parnell over the past 12 years in this role, and many of our members have built close relationships with her during this time.
This event had an excellent turnout, and we enjoyed drinks and Italian-inspired canapés by Kanteen in Casabella’s new intimate event space.
We heard from Brad Jacobs, Chair of the Parnell Business Association committee, who spoke very fondly of Cheryl’s leadership and his time working alongside her. Brad also offered a thank you and farewell to fellow committee member Jason Galea, who served on the board for almost 12 years.
Cheryl then spoke, reflecting on her 12 years in the role of General Manager and some of the many milestones she achieved in this period. From the BID expansion and establishment of the Crime Prevention and Security Programme, to major marketing promotions and events, to responding to emergencies, to The Strand Optimisation and Heard Park redevelopment projects—the past 12 years have never been dull!
Cheryl also expressed gratitude for everyone who has worked alongside her during this time—her team, Platform 4 Security, and the PBA board.
It was then Cheryl’s pleasure to introduce Adriana to our members, though Adriana is already a familiar face to many.
Adriana was a former elected local board member, and local board advisor and most recently the Facilities Coordinator – City Centre Focus Team, Auckland Council. She also was a resident of Parnell for many years, selling artisanal crafts at the Craft Markets as a teenager, coaching the Parnell Swim Club for many years, and undertaking a multitude of projects in her various roles to improve the Parnell area. Some of her legacy projects include the Gladstone Park Playground, Alberon Reserve boardwalk, and Scarborough Reserve tables.
To conclude the speeches, Hon. Paul Goldsmith shared some parting words for Cheryl on behalf of Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson. Desley was previously the councillor for Ōrakei Ward, and worked closely with Cheryl in this role.
This was a lovely event to celebrate Cheryl’s accomplishments and meet Adriana!
