The Bath Business Improvement District (Bath BID) has appointed experienced hotelier Michael Musgrave as the new chair of its board.
The BID said Michael, general manager of the Apex City of Bath Hotel, brought a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to the role and will drive forward its mission to enhance the economic vitality of Bath.
Michael, pictured, has been an integral part of the team at the 177-bed, four-star Apex City of Bath team for more than six of the seven years since it opened.
The BID said with an extensive background in hospitality management – working for the past 25 years in general management roles for major industry names such as IHG and Hotel Du Vin – he had demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to excellence.
At the same time, his understanding of Bath’s business landscape made him an ideal candidate to lead the BID.
One of around 330 business improvement districts across the UK and Ireland, Bath BID was set up in 2011 to keep the city centre area safe and clean.
An independent and not-for-profit, business-led initiative funded by 675 levy payers, it has since set up a number of schemes including a trade waste partnership, the introduction of rangers and welcome ambassadors and the Bath Gift Card scheme.
Following a second renewal ballot among city centre businesses in 2021, the BID secured a contract to operate until 2026.
Michael, who succeeds former chief executive of St John’s Foundation David Hobdey as BID chair, said he was honoured to take on the role and looked forward to working closely with the BID team, his colleagues on the board and local businesses to continue making Bath a vibrant and thriving city.
“Together, we continue to focus on initiatives that support business growth, enhance the welcome of the city and foster a strong sense of community,” he added.
He said the BID had been instrumental in driving positive change in the city – from improving public spaces to supporting local events and marketing campaigns.
Under his leadership, it would aim to build on these successes and explore new opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
Bath BID CEO Allison Herbert said the organisation was thrilled to welcome Michael as its new chair.
“His vision and dedication will be invaluable as we continue to work towards our goals of making Bath a welcoming, smart, connected and successful city,” she added.
