The head of one of Birmingham's business improvement districts has been appointed to a national role. Michele Wilby, who is chief executive of Colmore BID, is now co-chairwoman of The BID Foundation, a professional body for the business groups across the UK.
She will perform the role jointly with Nadia Broccardo, chief executive of Team London Bridge BID. Founded in 2018, The BID Foundation represents more than 80 business improvement districts in the UK and is part of the Institute of Place Management, which is based at Manchester Metropolitan University and leads the government's High Streets Task Force.
The foundation works to represent BIDs, share best practice, influence place policy and support their work. Under the new co-chairwomen, the foundation will focus on four key themes - safety, public realm, net zero and arts, marketing and inward investment.
Ms Wilby said: "BIDs have been at the forefront of helping to shape places across the UK for nearly 20 years but, as the industry has matured, they have been able to really demonstrate their value in supporting businesses through really challenging economic times.
"I look forward to working with Nadia and (vice-chairman) Stefan to further develop The BID Foundation as a key industry voice, representing towns and cities up and down the country."
Cathy Parker, chairwoman of the Institute of Place Management, said: "Business improvement districts each represent an average of 400 organisations in their local areas and they play a key role in place making.
"I'm delighted that Nadia and Michele will be bringing their drive, experience and dedication to place to their new roles."
