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Certificate in BID Management

What is the course?

The Certificate in BID Management training course provides future and current BID managers with a comprehensive toolkit, enabling them to manage a BID efficiently and effectively.

After completing the CiBM, you will be able to:

  • Implement principles of good-governance to your BID
  • Develop knowledge of BID-specific financial matters
  • Understand how to create effective marketing campaigns
  • Know how to build a brand around your BID
  • Gain understanding of contractual regulations
  • Manage and develop levy payer relationships
  • Create an in-depth research paper on a matter specific to your BID

Each session runs for 2.5 hours, from 10:30am until 1:00pm. All sessions will run virtually via Zoom.

2025 class dates will be announced in due course.

The Certificate in BID Management has, since its inception in 2013, become an essential part in the personal development of BID practitioners. The CiBM covers technical aspects including BID legislation, marketing, communications, brand management, contract management, operational skills and delivering value for stakeholders. Together with the specific aspects that each session focusses on, each delegate will produce a detailed research project based on improving or resolving an issue that they find within their current BID, which is then presented to Directors.

The nuances of BIDs means there are specific factors in finance, marketing and operations that are not transferrable from other industries. This means that an understanding of these within the context of the BID industry is crucial to the success of a BID practitioner.

The CiBM has established a proud record of not only assisting in graduates' career development, but also the development of towns and cities through the research conducted by our delegates. Over 140 students from across 85 locations have undertaken the Certificate to date.

Day 1 - Induction & Principles of BIDs

  • Background to BIDs
  • The principles of establishing and managing a BID
  • The BID ballot
  • The challenges that BIDs face
  • Your structured research report

Day 2 - BID regulations, Policy, Financial matters & BID governance

  • Understanding the BID regulations
  • National BID Criteria
  • Technical guidance
  • Governance structures
  • Good governance principles
  • Business plan essentials
  • Role & responsibilities of Directors
  • Financial controls in BIDs
  • Cashflow principles

Day 3 - Research methodologies and data collection techniques

  • Principles of research
  • Collecting and analysing data
  • Choosing your research topic

Day 4 - Marketing & communications in BIDs

  • What is a brand and what do you want from it?
  • Things to consider when preparing a marketing & communications plan for a BID
  • The importance of marketing in a BID
  • Preparing a marketing & communications plan for an event

Day 5 - Contract management & operations

  • Roles & responsibilities
  • Managing the BID operation
  • Contract law and management
  • Managing risk
  • Managing expectations

Day 6 – Presentation skills - Research papers presentation tips, guidance & rehearsals

Advice and preparation on the presentation of the chosen research topic including;

  • Considering and applying the core steps to being a good presenter
  • Understanding and applying some top tips for delivering effective presentations to any audience
  • Effective verbal and body language

Day 7 – Presentations day

  • Presentation delivered to panel

The cost of the course is £2,000 for Bb members, including their 25% discount. For non-members, please get in touch.

Class Two (2024)
 

Alexa Volker, Reading Central & Abbey Quarter BIDs

Alexa has worked with Reading BID for almost eight years, starting as Head of Operations responsible for implementing a second BID area to the town, Abbey Quarter BID.  This new BID area focuses mainly on the office sector while complementing the established Reading Central BID, mainly the retail and hospitality businesses. Since then, she has been promoted to BID Manager leading the recently successful ballot in February 2024 across both BID areas. Alexa has also implemented the ever-expanding well-being menu aimed at staff working within the BID area providing a wide range of training opportunities, yoga, walking and gym sessions. Alongside this also growing the sustainability projects around cardboard and small electrical recycling for all the businesses. Another channel of work includes the recently established social projects working with businesses to donate food and clothing to those most vulnerable in the town. 

Suman Marygiri, Central District Alliance

Suman joined as the Public Realm Project Manager for Central District Alliance in April 2023. Her responsibilities include a range of projects aimed at enhancing public spaces for local businesses, residents, and visitors. She oversees the implementation and upkeep of greening projects, alongside community engagement events that support activating public spaces and promote active travel across Holborn and Clerkenwell. Suman also oversees the annual installation of Christmas lights, spanning from Tottenham Court Road Station all the way to the Barbican Station.

Tom Swithinbank, Bristol BID 

As Senior Project Manager for the Bristol BIDs, Tom is responsible for delivering Sustainability and Public Realm Projects. Tom’s projects include the Climate Action Programme, Cargo Bikes for Business, Waste and Recycling Initiatives and a range of Public Realm and Greening Projects. Tom also leads many of the BIDs' strategic relationships, responding to consultations and planning proposals. Tom has been with the BIDs for over five years, currently leading the BIDs through the consultation ahead of the ballot in June 2025. 

Thomas Wales, Wakefield BID 

Thomas joined Wakefield BID in April 2024 as Chief Executive. Without BID experience, the chance to learn about BID Management was critical to Thomas and Wakefield BID’s success, with a new 5-year ballot fast approaching it was important to hit the ground running. 

Class One (2024)
 

Jenny Dunlop, I Love Clarkston & All About Barrhead BID

As BID Manager, Jenny has been tasked with taking on the day-to-day management, marketing and events strategy of both I Love Clarkston and All About Barrhead BIDs. Jenny is also the company secretary at Big Hand Events who have managed the two small BIDs in Scotland (comprising of around 300 businesses) for the past seven years. 

Michelle Woodland, One Maidstone

Following staffing restructures, Michelle began her role as the new CEO at One Maidstone BID in January 2023. Prior to this role, Michelle worked as the Marketing & Communications Manager, delivering 20+ events of various sizes as well as introducing a new marketing strategy and way of working. One Maidstone’s new term began in October 2023 and since then, Michelle has been learning how to manage a BID, renewing contracts and tenders, budget planning for the new 5-year term and closing with the team, levy members and board to lay down the foundations of the new term. Michelle’s role and responsibilities are very diverse, and no day is the same.

Ash Durling, Harley Street BID

Ash joined the Harley Street BID in May 2023 as Operations Manager with key responsibilities of all operational management within the BID, along with the management of both Cleansing and Security teams for the footprint and the ongoing coordination of the Emergency Notification system. Ash is from a strong operations background within private healthcare across several providers, managing small to large projects. Before working in healthcare, Ash worked as a Marine Engineer in the Royal Navy, his last draft as a Royal Yachtsman serving on the Royal Yacht Britannia with the Royal Family and visiting royals.

Charlotte Ashworth, Station to Station BID

As the BID Manager of Station to Station BID (West Norwood & Tulse Hill in Lambeth), Charlotte makes it her business to meet everyone, learning what they do and how they do it; when it becomes apparent that something needs doing, Charlotte will join everyone together to help determine potential resolutions. Prior to this role, Charlotte worked in the SE London community for many years and in that time saved a paddling pool, established a film festival, and facilitated community markets.

Sarah Walmsley, Brentwood Connected

Sarah is the BID Manager at Brentwood Connected which launched in October 2023. This is a new role for Sarah who is working with businesses to deliver on four key themes around improvement, promotion, creating a welcoming environment and connection. Sarah is very excited to be enrolled on this course to learn more about BIDs and to meet others working in the industry.

Ciara Wilczur, Fleet Street Quarter BID

Ciara is the Operations Manager at Fleet Street Quarter. Her role covers a variety of key responsibilities including managing planting, street cleaning, overseeing their crime reduction schemes as well as supporting their businesses in various needs.

Kavita Chauhan, Coventry BID 

As Senior Admin Officer at Coventry BID, Kavita’s main responsibilities include day-to-day liaising with businesses via phone/email and in person, handling customer enquiries as they arise or referring these on to the relevant person and keeping the BID’s website, radio scheme and CRM database up to date.

Simone Brown, South Bank BID

Simone is the Finance & Administration Officer for South Bank BID and South Bank Employer’s Group. Simone’s role consists of supporting the Financial Controller and The Chief Operating Officer, overseeing all aspects of accounts payable and operations.

Richard Turner, Newcastle NE1 Ltd

Working as Business Support Manager for Newcastle NE1, Richard’s role falls within the Operations Team. Business Engagement is his primary focus with a blend of reactive and longer-term project work including public realm works/activations, city centre transformation projects, CSR, transport, licensing, planning applications, as well as monthly email updates for businesses including city centre events, regional updates and road closures, ad hoc comms as required along with the core programme of business support.

Izabella Kasinska, Aldgate Connect BID

Since 2020, Izabella has worked for Aldgate Connect BID and is the current Project Manager for the district. Her role involves operational oversight of a comprehensive portfolio of projects across all four of the BID’s strategic themes. Izabella is an accomplished Project Manager, with more than 5 years of experience in Business Improvement Districts. Her career began at Victoria BID, supporting the team with a wide range of research projects and initiatives. She has an extensive track record of delivering unique event & placemaking activations and BID projects through effective project management. Izabella also holds a degree in Politics & International Relations from the University of Westminster.

Charlotte Irvine, Linen Quarter BID

Charlotte joined Linen Quarter BID (Belfast) in 2019 as the Finance & Contracts Manager. She manages a range of projects aimed at improving the safety and vibrancy of the Linen Quarter, including their Clean team, district-wide planting, dedicated policing service, and crime prevention projects. As well as running their operational contracts, Charlotte represents the BID in several working groups comprised of public sector partners and the other Belfast BIDs. In addition, she also manages the BID’s income, cashflow and budgeting. Charlotte is excited to be taking part in this course to share best practices and network with others from the industry whilst developing her own knowledge and skillset.

Liam Sheppard, Newbury BID

As the BID Ambassador at Newbury BID, Liam works as a business liaison providing an important connection between the BID and the businesses in the area. Liam joined the BID team in February 2023 after previous experiences in retail, the public sector and the tourism industry. 

Suman Marygiri, Central District Alliance

"I recently had the opportunity to participate in the CiBM course. The comprehensive curriculum covered a wide range of topics, from the foundations of the BID framework to governance, funding, marketing, and events management. The course professors shared invaluable insights and practical advice, fostering a collaborative and supportive learning environment.

One of the most significant benefits of the CiBM was the opportunity to connect with BID professionals from across the UK. Sharing experiences and best practices on how to deal with different aspects of working in a BID.

I highly recommend the CiBM, whether you are new to the role or seeking to enhance your existing skills, this course will equip you with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed in your role within the BID sector."

Wendy Bell, Crawley Town Centre BID

"The CIBM really helped me to consider an issue within our area and then take some time to focus on possible solutions. The time I spent researching my project with other BIDs was really beneficial; as it showed where different BIDs challenges were similar but also our differences too. I would highly recommend this course to new and experienced BID team members."

Cyril Bekoe, Ilford BID

"Joining the BID industry from an external sector, the British BIDs CiBM course has provided me the guidance and support to build a strong foundation on which I can better support my businesses and board. I would strongly recommend the course structure, content and facilitators."

Rachel Dingsdale, South Bank BID

"I would thoroughly recommend the CiBM having recently completed it. The teaching sessions gave a really comprehensive overview of the BID industry and the individual sessions were well presented and involved a good balance of teaching alongside peer to peer learning and collaboration. The chance to network with key figures in the BID world and meet colleagues from across a wide range of BIDs and learn from their experience was invaluable. The written dissertation element of the course gave the opportunity to engage in an in-depth investigation and while challenging was a really important element of the course."

Nick Bishop, Bath BID

"I recently completed the Certificate in BID Management and I would highly recommend it to anyone who has aspirations for a career in the BID industry. The course has provided me with comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of working in BIDs, and I now feel confident in communicating and delivering services to our levy payers. I really enjoyed meeting colleagues from BIDs all over the UK and sharing best practice with one and other. Thank you British BIDs."

Julie Frost, Romford BID

“Having just completed the CiBM I would definitely recommend the course to anyone involved in BIDs around the country. I am new to BID management and found all teaching sessions so helpful, with very knowledgeable presenters and the opportunity to share experience with fellow colleagues in the BID world. Due to covid-19 our course was all completed via Zoom so we did miss out on the personal contact however it did work well and I would highly recommend."

Susan Shaw, Richmond Council

“I enjoyed this very professional and comprehensive BID course and having the opportunity to meet other BID Managers from around the UK. Doing the research project was both demanding and rewarding at the same time!”

Chris Travers, Orpington 1st

“The CIBM was a fantastic experience and one which I would thoroughly recommend to both aspiring and experienced BID personnel. It provided an excellent opportunity to network with peers and a comprehensive look at all aspects of working in the BID industry. The speakers were engaging and knowledgeable and offered unrivalled insights into their respective topics.”

2024

Jenny Dunlop, I Love Clarkston & All About Barrhead

Michelle Woodland, One Maidstone

Ash Durling, Harley Street BID

Charlotte Ashworth, Station to Station BID

Sarah Walmsley, Brentwood Connected

Ciara Wilczur, Fleet Street Quarter & Positively Putney

Kavita Chauhan, Coventry BID

Simone Brown, South Bank BID

Richard Turner, Newcastle NE1 Ltd

Izabella Kasinska, Aldgate Connect

Liam Sheppard, Newbury BID

Charlotte Irvine, Linen Quarter BID

Louise Whitworth, South Bank BID 

2023

Sara Tupper, Chelmsford for You

Lottie Stanley, InExeter BID

Joanna Breuer, Fulham Broadway BID

Kelly Bliss, South Bank BID

Clarissa Parker, Slough BID

Lee Roberts, Lincoln BIG

Roberta Redecke, Sunderland BID

Angela Grey, Lowestoft Vision

Aaron Finn, Hatton Garden BID

Heather Card-Jones, Hemel Hempstead BID

James Mbanefo, Wandsworth Town

2022

Dan Collins, Salisbury BID

Marcos Gold, Central District Alliance

Andrew Bell, Fulham Broadway BID

Dawn Rondeau, Weymouth BID

Elche Doluner, Colchester BID

Nikita Hart, Sidcup BID

Kate Blenkinsop, Nottingham BID

Mujibur Rahman, Redditch BID

Sean Kennedy, MyMiltonKeynes

Wendy Bell, Crawley Town Centre BID

2021

Emily Stedman, South Bank BID

Richard Green

Joe Sentance, North Notts BID

Cassy Staal, MyMiltonKeynes

Nicki Palmer, Victoria BID

Lyndsay Smith, Coventry BID

Fran Inman, Bristol City Centre BID

Gail Buckland, Hemel Hempstead BID

Claire Dumontier-Marriage, Cheapside Business Alliance

Rachael Smith, Primera Corporation

Gail McGibbon, Sligo BID

Finbarr Filan, Sligo BID

Jenny Granshaw, Cambridge BID

Ellen Fife, Wandsworth Town Centre BID

Kristian Foreman, Cambridge BID

Sarah-Jane Adams, Royal Tunbridge Wells Together

2020

Johnny Englishby, MyMiltonKeynes

Suzanne Gloyne, Southend BID

Cyril Bekoe, Ilford BID

Vicky Lee, Bristol City Centre BID

Vicky Rogers, Halesowen BID

Sophia Beckford, Our Colchester BID

Nick Bishop, Bath BID

Adrian Cousins, Witham Industrial BID

Sarah Davis, Winchester BID

Paula Ratcliffe, Bristol City Centre BID

Olivia Murray, Ilford BID

Julie Frost, Romford BID

Rachel Dingsdale, South Bank BID

Katy Paddock, Colmore BID

Alex Powell, Kidderminster BID

2019

Melanie Beck, MyMiltonKeynes

Abdel Najid, South Bank BID

Ilsa Butler, One Maidstone

Sam Good, Our Colchester

Neil Haggartay, South Bank BID

Amy Coulson, Nottingham BID

Chloe McNeil, Halifax BID

Livia Caruso, Hammersmith BID

Gordon Brockie, Hammersmith BID

Steve Bluff, Broadmead BID

Ellen Storrar, Richmond BID

Jack Cripps, Ipswich Central

Jodie MacAndrew, Collectively Camberley BID

Richard Buxton, Stoke-on-Trent City Centre BID

Selina Cresswell, Our Colchester BID

Vanessa Sharp, St Albans BID

Caron Linyard, Bexleyheath BID

2018

Shahrukh Bhatty, South Bank BID

John Coward, Nottingham BID

James Dunham, BID Leicester

Jill Farnsworth, Watford BID

Sally Gilborn, North Notts BID

Glen Hempenstall, Uxbridge BID

Craig Hurring, South Bank BID

Simon Jenner, BID Leicester

Claudia Moore, Weymouth BID

Amie Mullen, Lowestoft Vision BID

Sam Murray, Manor Royal BID

Patricia Park, Successful Sutton BID

Indranie Sookdeo, South Bank BID

Paul Spencer, Winchester BID

Lucy Stanford, Nottingham BID

Leonna Staple, Twickenham BID

Amy Williams, Newcastle-Under-Lyme BID

Cheryl Williams, Colwyn BID

2017

WIlma Sagoe, Ilford BID

Sarah Nelson, Mansfield BID

Jane Bastock, Winchester BID

Patrick Knight, Plymouth City Council

Mike Crane, Uxbridge BID

Diane Mansell, Soho Road BID

Nikki Rolls, Walsall Council

Gerry Barwick, Twickenham BID

Susan Shaw, Richmond Council

Mike Truelove, Hereford BID

Natalie Dickson, Nottingham BID

Daniel O'Neill, Acocks Green Village BID

Brian Albuquerque, Wandsworth Council

Marcia Greenwood, Northfield BID

Thomas Zane-Black, Your Bromley BID

Amy Sheppard, Winchester BID

Lorinda Freint, Wandsworth Council

Charlotte Wickins, Chichester BID

Tony Garrett, Bexleyheath BID

2016

Steve Sawyer, Manor Royal BID

Matthew John, Hammersmith London

Nic Durston, Southbank BID

Nicola Grant, Putney Town Centre

Alicia Mosquito, Westside BID

Will Dyson, WeAreWaterloo

Chris Travers, Orpington 1st

Rupert Basham, HammersmithLondon

2015

Jo Hawkins, Destination Bristol

Ross Feeney, Successful Sutton

Andrew Mitchell, Alloa BID

Tammy Sleet, Wimborne

2014

Ben Collins, Ilford BID

Rebecca Handley, Kingstonfirst

Lee Walker, Ipswich Central

Katie Lindsey, Baker Street Quarter

Andrew Cooper, Bath BID

Maris Puks, Waterloo Quarter

Alison Shaw, BID Leamington

Josyanne Thatcher, Cornwall Council

Alison Dewey, Southend BID

2013

Julie Thorneycroft, Northampton BID

Hasanul Hoque, Camden Town Unlimited

Frances Forrest, Vauxhall One

Ann Hunter, Ealing Broadway

BID Russell Downing, Newbury BID

Cherry Shine, Wolverhampton Council

Robin Hibbert, New West End Company

Catherine Turness, Winchester BID