What is your favorite thing about working at Center City District? 

JI: This is my fifth year working at CCD and I still find immeasurable delight in showing couples John F. Collins Park as a venue for their wedding ceremony. Even though the park has been there for over 40 years, there are still so many people who have never noticed it or have even been inside the gates. Once you discover its magic, it’s very hard to forget. 

What is your role, and what does a day in your work life at CCD look like? 

JI: I am the Event Sales Manager for Center City District. Essentially, I work with people who are looking to host their special event at a CCD park. That can be anything from social events like weddings and birthdays, corporate or nonprofit events like meetings, galas or fundraisers, to larger public events like festivals.   

I like to say every day is an adventure because no two days are the same. I spend a fair amount of time in the office performing administrative tasks like processing event inquiries and meeting with prospective clients, and I also spend a few hours in the parks either showing the spaces or working closely with the operations team to prepare them for events. Finally, I spend another few hours after work at special events networking and building the relationships that keep Center City District parks front of mind when someone needs a unique venue for an upcoming event.   

What work are you most proud of in your role at CCD? 

JI: I am prouder of the work that our on-street teams put in day in and day out to keep Center City clean, safe and attractive.  It’s a welcoming feeling, even as a Center City dweller for over a decade, to know exactly who to find when you need assistance with directions or a suggestion for a must-see nearby attraction.  Their work supports my work. I would not be in a position to sell anything in Center City if residents, visitors or business owners did not feel comfortable throughout the district.  

If you were planning a day out in Center City, what would be on the agenda? 

JI: A day out in Center City always includes Parc. I have brunch there most weekends and indulge in breakfast on the rare occasion I take a weekday off. I love going to the movies so, I’m probably going to the AMC Theaters at The Fashion District and ordering a large popcorn (bringing my own ranch seasoning) and watching whatever is playing on the largest screen they have. On my way home, I’ll stop at a few of my favorite places for shop talk, trinkets and a cocktail before calling it a day.   

What is something interesting about you outside of your CCD work that you would like to share about yourself? 

JI: I’m an avid reader. I love live music, singing and dancing. I’m no good at any of those things but I never let it stop me from having my fun. I love bold, bright colors and my accessories, nail colors, lipsticks and eyeglasses tell that story quite well. 

Join Our Team 

Interested in learning more about our parks? Learn about our parks and reserving them for your special events. To learn more about joining our team, visit our career page.