Following the successful ballot for a second term of the Ilkley Business Improvement District (BID), Ilkley BID is seeking a new BID Manager to deal with the running of the BID company and effectively deliver on the company’s aims as outlined in the new five-year Business Plan.

This new appointment comes as Helen Rhodes, the current BID Manager, is stepping down from her role to focus on the business she runs with her husband.

She said: “I have been involved with Ilkley BID since its conception in 2019. I did leave briefly in February 2021 but agreed later that year to return part-time to the role on a temporary basis. Two and a half years later, I’m still there! But now is the time for me to concentrate on my own Ilkley business and with a new term of five years secured for the BID, this is an excellent opportunity for someone with good business sense, great communication skills, energy and creativity to take the reins.

“I’ve loved working with the BID board and team and have particularly enjoyed all my interactions with the businesses and stakeholders who make up this fantastic town. I will be staying a little longer to ensure a smooth transition for my successor and am looking forward to welcoming lots of applications for this exciting and dynamic role.”

Ian White, Chair of Ilkley BID, said: “Helen has been a huge asset to Ilkley BID and the board cannot thank her enough for her passion, professionalism, dedication and commitment to her role. We will all miss her tremendously and wish her every success.

“It’s a new chapter now for the BID with our strong mandate for a second five-year term, however trading conditions are still challenging and continued collaboration and support is as vital as ever. The appointment of the new BID manager will help us continue the great work we’ve done in our first term under Helen’s leadership in boosting the town and supporting Ilkley businesses, and we all remain fully committed to making Ilkley the best place to live, work, visit and do business.”

Applicants are invited to send their CV and a covering letter to chair@ilkleybid.co.uk by 5pm on Friday 19th April. Interviews will take place week commencing 22nd/29th April and all applicants should include availability for an interview within these timescales in their application.

To read the full job description, visit: www.ilkleybid.co.uk.