Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation Shares Update to Executive Leader Search

The Bradenton Area Economic Development Corporation (EDC) today announced the appointment of Amanda Parrish as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective January 15, 2026. Parrish’s appointment follows the retirement of longtime President and CEO Sharon Hillstrom, who concluded her tenure on December 31, 2025.

Parrish brings nearly a decade of senior leadership experience and a proven ability to guide organizations through change. She has spent nearly ten years with Fawley Bryant Architecture, where she currently serves as Partner and Chief Operating Officer. During her tenure, she has helped lead the firm through two ownership transitions, maintaining operational stability, strategic focus, and team engagement.

Parrish is also a well-known leader within the regional business community. In 2021, she served as Chair of the Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance, where she helped guide the organization through its own CEO transition, overseeing executive departure, search, and onboarding while preserving member confidence and organizational continuity.

She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Advertising and Public Relations and a Master’s degree in Organizational Leadership. Combined with her executive leadership experience, this background provides a strong foundation in communications, stakeholder alignment, and organizational effectiveness.

“I am honored by the confidence placed in me and grateful for the Board’s trust at this pivotal moment for the organization,” said Parrish. “My immediate focus is on supporting and engaging our team, strengthening relationships with investors and community partners, and ensuring operational continuity. This interim period is about stability, transparency, and positioning the EDC for long-term success as we work toward its next chapter of leadership.”

Parrish will serve as Interim CEO while the Board conducts a search for a permanent chief executive. The Board has engaged Winner Partners, a Florida-based executive search firm with extensive experience recruiting chief executives for economic development organizations and other nonprofits. The search will be conducted in a proven, results-driven and professional manner, with a focus on qualifications, performance history, and strong local fit.

“During this time, the EDC remains committed to its mission of recruiting and retaining high-wage jobs to all ten communities within Manatee County and providing the resources local companies need to expand and thrive,” said Chris Cianfaglione, Board Chair of the EDC.

For more information about the EDC, visit BradentonAreaEDC.com.