Leading the BID industry
Leading the BID industry
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:
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
Day 2 - BID regulations, Policy, Financial matters & BID governance
Day 3 - Research methodologies and data collection techniques
Day 4 - Marketing & communications in BIDs
Day 5 - Contract management & operations
Day 6 – Presentation skills - Research papers presentation tips, guidance & rehearsals
Advice and preparation on the presentation of the chosen research topic including;
Day 7 – Presentations day
The cost of the course is £2,000 for Bb members, including their 25% discount. For non-members, please get in touch.
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.
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.
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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."
“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."
“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!”
“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
