Riverbanks Welcomes New General Manager for Food and Retail
February 13, 2017
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden is pleased to announce the promotion of Emma Blackman to general manager of the Zoo’s food and retail division.
Blackman began her career with Denver-based Service Systems Associates (SSA), Riverbanks’ exclusive food and retail partner, in 2013 as a member of the Zoo’s catering department. She was promoted to assistant general manager in 2016, and since that time, Blackman has been instrumental in the day-to-day operations of Riverbanks’ dining and shopping establishments and the Zoo’s events and hospitality division.
“Emma is a natural leader who delivers a unique and progressive approach to guest services,” said Sean McNicholas, president and CEO of Service Systems Associates. “She offers a blend of compassion and skills that make her and her team successful. We are excited for Emma’s continued growth.”
Blackman has nearly a decade of experience in the hospitality industry ranging from catering to operations. She is a native of Charlotte, North Carolina and a graduate of the University of South Carolina.
In addition, Riverbanks Society, the private, nonprofit organization supporting the needs of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden through membership and fundraising, has announced its slate of executive officers for 2017, as well as three new Board members.
Executive officers:
- President Chris Goodall, Goodall Company
- Vice-President Derrick L. Williams, Mickle and Bass
- Secretary Marie McGehee, Colonial Life
- Treasurer J. Anderson Folsom, BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina
New Board members:
- Sharon W. Bryant, First Citizens
- Sarah Kirby, Palmetto Health Baptist Parkridge
- Stephanie R. Jones, SCANA Corporation
Visit Riverbanks online to view the entire list of 2017 Society Board members.
For more than 40 years, Riverbanks Zoo and Garden has connected individuals, families and groups with the world’s wildlife and wild places. Riverbanks is a special purpose district governed by the Riverbanks Park Commission, which consists of seven members, two appointed by Richland County Council, two by Lexington County Council, two by the City of Columbia, and one jointly by the three entities. It is the mission of Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to foster appreciation and concern for all living things. Riverbanks Zoo is located at 500 Wildlife Parkway, Columbia, SC 29210. The Botanical Garden entrance is located at 1300 Botanical Parkway, West Columbia, SC 29169. The park is open daily from 9am to 5pm, except for Thanksgiving and Christmas day. Admission is $15.95 for adults, $13.50 for children ages 2 – 12 and free for children younger than 2. Group rates and other discounts may apply. Year-round membership packages are also available. For more information, call Riverbanks at 803.779.8717, visit www.riverbanks.org orwww.facebook.com/riverbankszoo
