Coventry BID Manager

Background 

A Business Improvement District (BID) is a defined geographical area within which businesses opt (via a ballot) to provide services for their business community to support improvements to the overall trading environment in which they all operate. 

Coventry Business Improvement District (BID) became independent in April 2018, but became a BID in 2006. The BID is now well established and in its fourth 5 year BID term. 

Job Function 

To provide strategic and operational management for the Coventry BID, engaging with key stakeholders, including levy payers, the local authority and community organisations. The role of BID Manager is responsible to the BID Board and for the delivery of the business plan and to manage contract delivery against SLAs, KPIs and budgets. 

Responsibilities 

• Lead the organisation, internally and externally 
• Proactively seek opportunities to extend the scope of delivery 
• Build external relationships 
• Manage any operational team to ensure effective and efficient delivery of the BID company’s objectives, as agreed by the Board 
• Management of office and staff 
• Work alongside and in cooperation with the Company’s management consultants (in applicable) 
• Ensure that the Chair and Directors are briefed on operational activities, (including opportunities and threats) fortnightly, either by way of face-to-face meetings, telephone calls or emails where necessary 
• Provide updates on all maters of consequence to the Chair (and to the Board where appropriate) 
• Arrange for, attend and contribute to Board meetings 
• Monitor and manage performance of the Company against the Business Plan and annual action/delivery plans 
• Manage and/or oversee all projects delivered by the Company ensuring time and budget targets are met 
• Promote the Company to stakeholders 
• Ensure appropriate messages about the Company’s activities and achievements are deliver 
  
• Be the operational point of contact for relevant partners, and work to co-ordinate the aims of the Company with other appropriate initiatives 
• Safeguard the financial position of the BID to ensure that performance is in-line with approved budgets and cash flow forecasts 
• Take a lead on the generation of non-core income 
• Oversee contractual and payment arrangements in respect of appointed contractors and suppliers 
• Identify and pursue new opportunities for extending the range, benefits and income of the Company 
• Pursue a strategy of continuous professional development 

NOTE: The above list is not in order of priority, and other tasks commensurate with the grade of the pst may be required of the post-holder. 

Person Specification 

Essential 

• Senior leadership Experience 
• Evidence of commercial acumen and experience of small business management 
• Ability to work with minimum supervision under the leadership of a board and in close co-operation with management consultants 
• Evidence of direct management of staff and/or contractors 
• Ability to manage complex relationships with partners 
• Proven tenacious leadership style 
• Proven negotiation skills at strategic and operational levels in both public and private sectors to achieve partnership working towards common goals 
• Ability to work with professionalism and integrity at all times 
• Excellent communication skills with ability to handle complex information
• Flexible working including some out of hours 
• Knowledge of Coventry and of Business Improvement Districts 

Desirable

• Degree level education (or equivalent) or an appropriate professional qualification in a relevant discipline 
• Visual presentation skills 
• Knowledge of political and economic conditions of retail, leisure ad licensed businesses 
• Project management experience

Person characteristics 

Player Adaptability: This role requires the ability to handle detailed information, balance multiple tasks and respond quickly to business situations and be able to work within a changing environment 

Team Player: Work co-operatively with others set goals, resolve problems and make decisions that enhance the effectiveness of the business 

Ethically focused: As the BID leader, the BID Manager needs to demonstrate the highest standards of behaviour at all ties. This person will regularly be invited to attend social events representing the BID and evenings and weekends. 

Lead: Positively influence others, demonstrate good listening skills humility and the ability to accept social diversity. 

Decision making: The BID Manager needs to support the business and staff by quickly assessing situations as to their importance, risks and urgency and lead the business by making clear and timely decisions in the best interested of the organisation. 

GENERAL INFORMATION 

Contracted Hours: 
The role is a permanent contract until 31st March 2023. With extension following the successful re-ballot 

Some limited national travel may be required (at the company’s expense) for operational and training purposes, this may include infrequent overnight stays. 

Location: 
Coventry BID Area, Coventry City Centre 

How to apply: 
Please email your CV and covering letter to: bidchair@outlook.com