BREAKING Cheltenham BID chief executive Francesca Inman heading Down Under
Summary
The chief executive of Cheltenham BID will be stepping down at the end of September, after just over two years in post. Francesca Inman is heading for Adelaide in Australia, to do a similar role. She told Punchline-Gloucester.com that placemaking is just starting to get up and running in Australia and it felt like a great opportunity.
Details
She added that she has loved working in Cheltenham, where she said there are some great businesses and great businesspeople. She told Punchline she had put her heart and soul into the role and would miss the town and the people. Francesca joined Cheltenham BID in 2024, bringing extensive experience from Bristol BIDs and North Somerset Council.
During her time in Cheltenham, Francesca has worked closely with the BID board, levy-paying businesses, local authorities and strategic partners to strengthen the BID’s role as a champion for Cheltenham’s business community and help shape the future of the town centre. She has overseen the successful renewal ballot for the BID’s third term, ensuring continued investment in the town centre over the next five years.
She has also helped strengthen partnerships across the public and private sectors, expanded business engagement , secured additional external funding for projects, and championed initiatives to improve the cleanliness , safety and long-term attractiveness of Cheltenham as a place to live, work, visit and invest.
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Alex Rose, chair of Cheltenham BID , said: “On behalf of the board, I would like to thank Fran for her leadership, commitment and energy over the past two years. She has built strong relationships across the town, helped position Cheltenham BID for a successful third term and leaves the organisation in a strong position for the future.
“While we are naturally sorry to see her go, this is a fantastic opportunity for Fran, and we wish her every success as she begins this exciting new chapter overseas.” Francesca Inman said: “It has been a privilege to lead Cheltenham BID and work alongside such a passionate, ambitious and supportive business community. Cheltenham is a very special place, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together.
“I leave knowing the BID has a dedicated team, an engaged board and strong partnerships that will continue to deliver for businesses across the town. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me during my time here, and I wish Cheltenham every success for the future.” Mark Owen, editor of Punchline-Gloucester.com , said “We’d like to wish Fran all the very best for hew new life Down Under.
She has been a breath of fresh air for the town, always looking for the positives and always happy to talk to the media. Personally, I think she’s done a wonderful job in a difficult situation.” Mark Owen recently had a walk round Cheltenham town centre with Fran , as Cheltenham businesses had their say on ways to improve the town. The BID board has already begun planning for the next phase of leadership.
Report source: Punchline Gloucester