On Tuesday, September 24, 2019 the British American Business Council of Greater Philadelphia presented Sky’s the Limit! Newcomers and veteran residents gathered for a “welcome to Philly” or “welcome back after summer” roof top tour of Philadelphia’s newest and most iconic spaces. Seven bi-national groups: the Chilean, Eurasian, French, German, Irish, Israeli, and Swedish American Chambers of Commerce partnered with us for this special, completely sold-out event. The evening was absolutely beautiful. The weather was crisp, clear and sunny, and guests were wowed by the 365 degree sweeping views of the City skyline. The program took place across three separate spaces, where attendees networked and enjoyed happy hour with the international business community.
Brandywine Realty Trust kicked-off the night with food and drinks on Cira Green, before moving attendees to a discussion in Brandywine Corporate Headquarters. Steve Rush, Vice President, Leasing, Brandywine Realty Trust led a presentation about the design, development, and master plan expansion of University City. The quickly changing area, referred to as “Schuylkill Yards,” is slated for extensive redevelopment on the west bank of the Schuylkill River.
After Steve’s presentation, each British Chamber member who sponsored the event was invited to say a few words about their business and their connection to the BACPHL. Leon Dutkiewicz, Partner and Practice Leader, International Tax, Citrin Cooperman; Bruce White, Vice President Insurance Services, Johnson Kendall Johnson; and Mick Merritt, Chief Operating Officer of Signature Services, Penn Medicine, spoke on behalf of their businesses.
The evening culminated 400 feet above street level at Level 28 – AKA University City’s spectacular lifestyle club. AKA University City graciously invited us to end the evening in their thoughtfully created space. Eilon Gigi, Director of Level 28 spoke briefly about AKA University City, which specializes in long term stays. He explained Level 28 was focused on member wellness, relaxation, and enjoyment, providing top notch amenities including a spectacular pool, Technogym Fitness Center, business and meeting space, and outdoor terrace overlooking Philadelphia. AKA offered event attendees a signature cocktail, beer and wine from their sleek bar overlooking the serene patio roof top seating area and the setting sun over the Philadelphia skyline. Guests were also invited to tour two of AKA’s well-appointed suites.
Attendees thoroughly enjoyed the night, both inside AKA’s comfortable lounge and outside on the terrace garden floating above the City. International business professionals networked long into the evening in one of Philadelphia’s most burgeoning neighborhoods where executives, students, professors, and residents mix.
Special thanks to sponsors: Citrin Cooperman, Johnson Kendall Johnson, and Penn Medicine, and to AKA University City and Brandywine Realty Trust, for hosting our program.
Click here to view photos from the event.
