Events expert to take the reins of Altrincham BID

The Board of Altrincham’s Business Improvement District (BID) has announced the appointment of Katie Bland as Altrincham BID Manager.

Katie joins Altrincham BID from global events organiser UBM where she has been leading “Routes”, an events business serving the aviation community.

Altrincham born and bred, Katie brings business expertise in key areas including strategic planning, financial management and events management as well as local knowledge.

Katie will take up the position at the end of June, and will be based at the new Altrincham BID office on The Downs.

Martin Duff, chair of the interim Altrincham BID Board and owner of Randalls Jewellery, said: “Katie’s application for the BID Manager role was impressive, and when we met her in person she ticked all the boxes.

“Not only does she possess the wide range of commercial skills and experience essential for the job, but as a long-time Altrincham resident she displays a genuine passion to drive improvement in Altrincham and continue the revitalisation we have seen to date. We are all very much looking forward to working with her.”

The BID, which businesses voted in favour of late last year, will see the creation of a £1.4million fund for projects designed to improve the town centre, increase footfall and enhance business performance over the next five years.

Speaking about her appointment, Katie said: “I am delighted to be joining Altrincham BID at such an exciting time. As a local resident I have been impressed by the regeneration achieved over the past few years and see the BID as an outstanding opportunity for Altrincham to build on that momentum.

“My first priority will be to meet with the Altrincham town centre business community from all sectors to understand their challenges and how the BID can best support them. The BID Business Plan has huge potential to benefit Altrincham over the next five years, and I am looking forward to working with the BID Board and Advisory Groups to develop events, projects and initiatives that will deliver a visible return for Altrincham businesses, and show both residents and visitors what a unique and flourishing town this is.”