Neil Hardy has been chosen as the next Chairperson for Chester BID
Chester BID, the Business Improvement District (BID) for Chester City Centre has appointed a new Chair to its board.
Neil Hardy was appointed into the role following on from Katrina Kerr, who is stepping down after three-and-a-half years ahead of local elections in May when she is standing as a candidate.
Experienced marketer Neil comes to the role with a wealth of knowledge in the commercial tourism, retail and leisure sector, having worked as the Head of E-commerce for the likes of Hays Travel, Co-Op Travel and Icelolly and Marketing and Digital Director for Shearings Holidays throughout his career.
Originally from the Midlands, Neil has been in the city since 1990 with his wife and two children who attended school in Chester. A keen runner, Neil is often seen exercising on the city walls in the early morning, before taking on his day job as a Marketing Specialist for The Mid-counties Co-operative.
Neil has found himself a part of the city’s drive to become a prolific UK destination after joining the Chester BID Board in 2022 to support the BIDs marketing and events strategy.
“I fell in love with Chester as soon as I visited all those years ago, its history and buildings are just breathtaking. But having lived and worked here for the best part of my life, and becoming an adopted Cestrian, I know it is so much more than that.” Said, Neil.
“I’m honoured to be taking on the role and looking forward to working with Carl, the BID team and board to support our BID members who are crucial to the city’s future success. Chester is in a positive place with a host of opportunities for investment and development making it an exciting time for the city – bring it on!”
Outgoing chair Katrina Kerr added: “I’m very proud of what’s been achieved over the last three years and I’m leaving the BID in a strong place as it looks towards term three here in Chester.”
CEO Carl Critchlow added: “Thank you to Katrina – it has been a privilege both personally and professionally to have worked with her over the last three years and on behalf of the BID I wish her all the best with her future endeavours. I’m very pleased to welcome Neil and look forward to working with him as we move into a crucial period for both the BID and its members.”
