Falmouth BID Seeking New Manager as Long-Standing Leader Steps Down After 15 Years

Leadership Change at the Helm of Award-Winning Falmouth BID

A rare leadership opportunity has opened up in Falmouth, as the Falmouth Business Improvement District (BID) announces that Executive Director Richard Wilcox will be stepping down at the end of April 2025 after nearly 15 years of service.

Richard has overseen the growth of one of the most established and award-winning BIDs in the South West, helping to shape the town’s reputation through destination marketing, PR, public realm improvements and an extensive calendar of events.

Falmouth BID, a not-for-profit business-led organisation, currently supports over 400 local businesses and plays a vital role in the proactive Falmouth Town Team partnership with Falmouth Town Council.

£1M Project Delivery in Progress

Following a resounding 90% YES vote in December 2023, the BID entered its fourth five-year term, securing over £1 million in funding for projects running until 2029. This was the strongest BID endorsement of any town in the South West.

Richard’s leadership has included nationally recognised campaigns and events such as the Tall Ships Regatta, which won UK Best Event, and National Armed Forces Day Cornwall. Other achievements include delivering free public space Wi-Fi, launching the official town website Falmouth.co.uk, and coordinating the campaign that led to Falmouth being named Best Coastal Town in the Government’s Great British High Street awards.

In 2022, Richard was recognised by industry peers as Inspirational Leader of the Year.

Experienced Interim Support

While recruitment for a new manager is underway, Cornish BID consultant Mel Richardson will step in to support the transition. Mel will be working both strategically and operationally, alongside the expert support team already in place and through the BID’s continued partnership with the Town Council.

This means all BID activities — including marketing, PR, digital support, the town’s busy events calendar and cruise ship liaison — will continue without disruption.

📷The Town Team partnership and BID Board

Who’s Behind the BID?

The Falmouth BID Board is made up of local business leaders who volunteer their time to support the town. The board is chaired by Rob Holmes, Director of Business Operations at Falmouth University.

Other board members include:

• Paul Wickes, CEO of Cornwall Marine Network

• Cath Horton, owner of Castle Sports

• Vicki Glaister, owner of Inspire Makers

• Giles Gould, Head of Commercial Operations at the National Maritime Museum Cornwall

• Ben Young, director of the Greenbank and Falmouth Hotels

• Mark Williams, Town Clerk

• Richard Gates, Town Manager

They will work closely with Mel to ensure the BID continues delivering at the high standard it has become known for.

📷Richard Wilcox