Her Story
About Adriana
Adriana Cunningham is a seasoned hospitality professional and Food and Beverage Manager at Seattle Golf Club in Seattle, Washington. With approximately a decade of experience in the food and beverage and restaurant industry, she has built her career around creating exceptional service experiences, developing high-performing teams, and maintaining operational excellence. Since immigrating to the United States from Romania in 2001, Adriana has progressed from entry-level restaurant roles to leadership positions, demonstrating a strong work ethic, adaptability, and enduring passion for hospitality.
At Seattle Golf Club, Adriana oversees food, beverage, and banquet operations while leading front-of-house teams and coordinating with multiple departments to ensure seamless service and
member satisfaction. She has made a significant impact through workforce development, including redesigning onboarding and training systems for a seasonal workforce with a large student population. Her expertise encompasses fine dining, event execution, service standards, budgeting and cost control, scheduling, coaching, mentoring, and employee development. She is particularly passionate about creating collaborative environments where staff feel valued and empowered to take pride in their work.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Adriana is committed to continued learning, leadership, and service to the hospitality community. She serves on the Board of Directors of the CMAA Evergreen Chapter and contributes to its Education Committee and student-focused initiatives. A graduate of the University of Oradea in Romania with a bachelor's degree in English Language and Literature, she brings a multicultural perspective to her leadership. Adriana believes in staying curious, being prepared when opportunities arise, and leading with integrity, respect, and passion. Outside of work, she enjoys skiing, hiking, outdoor adventures, and spending meaningful time with her sons while sharing the cultures of Romania and the United States with them.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Adriana
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a strong work ethic and incredible respect for my peers and my superiors, along with the passion to serve people.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I received is to be ready when the opportunity arises. Don't wait for the opportunity to present itself. Do your work, learn as much as you can, be present, be curious.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Teaching is a true passion for Adriana, who takes great joy in training and considers it a natural fit to serve on the education committee. She finds it deeply rewarding to contribute alongside the board of directors, with the CMAA valuing her perspective, opinions, and feedback.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
What I value most is the passion of doing things without letting lack of confidence stay in the way. Be present in the moment and make sure every minute of every day counts. Absorb everything, pay attention, and learn by being present.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.