Position Description

Better Bankside is seeking a dynamic leader to take on the exciting and challenging role of Chair of the Board.

Bankside is London’s other side, a neighbourhood that proudly stands apart. Better Bankside was established as one of the UK’s first Business Improvement Districts over 20 years ago and the neighbourhood’s identity has influenced BB’s values: impact, togetherness, otherness.

BB has always been an organisation that does things differently, pushes boundaries and experiments. This approach has been inspired by a visionary chair and backed by a strong, supportive and diverse board. The incumbent chair is due to step down at the end of 2026 after twenty years of successfully leading and developing the organisation.

BB is in a strong position having recently secured a fifth five-year term after winning the support of 91% of the business community. A five year strategy, co-designed by the board, executive and membership and underpinned by a vision for a stronger, greener, happier Bankside, sets the direction for 2025-30.

All Board positions are for a three year tenure, with the possibility of renewing for a maximum of two further terms. This also applies to the position of Chair.

Role Description

Providing leadership and vision to the CEO and board, the Chair will be engaged in the future of Better Bankside. The Chair will support and sustain the work of BB, through strategic direction and ensuring good governance. The Chair will have strong links to the area and experience of BID culture, demonstrate a passion for Bankside and a commitment to BB’s values.

Key responsibilities

Leadership:

• Champion the culture, ethos and values of the organisation.
• Provide strategic and inspirational leadership and direction to the board and CEO.
• Lead eight BB board meetings per year (in person), creating an inclusive, safe and welcoming environment where all are encouraged to participate and are comfortable in raising concerns.
• Manage the Board, ensuring that its membership and actions reflect BB’s priorities and the needs of the area. Advise CEO and executive on 12-month workplan to steer strategic debate at board meetings.
• Be a trusted advisor to the CEO, providing challenge and support. Support CEO’s professional development. Plan for CEO succession as required.

Governance:

• Maintain high standards of corporate governance in all dealings.
• Scrutinise and approve BB’s annual budget, audit reports, and material business decisions; being informed of, and meeting all legal and fiduciary responsibilities. Signatory to BB accounts.
• Oversight of board level policies. Monitor and manage risk.
• Play a key role in BB’s wider governance including chairing BB Strategy Day, attending board strategy groups and other meetings as required.
• Chair AGM in December, with Vice Chair administering proceedings.
• Recruitment and induction of new Board members, seeking a diverse and representative mix. Succession planning with board and CEO for future Chair.

Advocacy:

• Act as an ambassador for BB, advocating on relevant policy issues and representing the organisation externally with key stakeholders e.g. Southwark Council, GLA, Government.
• Develop partnerships and collaborations in London, nationally and internationally.
• Be available as a spokesperson for media opportunities where relevant.
• Play a strategic role in the Better Bankside five yearly ballot.

Statutory:

• Ensure that the BID acts in accordance with its duties to its levy payers and stakeholders and that it complies with all legal and statutory requirements.

Selection Criteria

Person specification

• Strong links to Bankside and well connected in London.
• A visionary leader with a flexible and inclusive style.
• Deep understanding of London business landscape and the BID model.
• Politically aware.
• Strategic leadership experience, with experience of effective chairing of a board, committee or other senior meetings.
• An understanding of governance, legal duties, liabilities, and responsibilities as company director.
• Strong financial acumen, with ability to comprehend issues and assess risks.
• A commercial mindset, with the ability to identify new opportunities for BB.
• Excellent networking skills to represent the BID effectively with members and stakeholders, including politicians and community groups.
• A compelling communicator with the ability to build consensus with diplomacy.
• A commitment to promoting diversity in all its forms across BB’s work and governance.
• A commitment to BB’s vision and five year strategy.

All Company Directors must adhere to the seven core Director duties as set under the Companies Act 2006. These are;

• You must follow the company’s constitution
• You must promote the success of the company
• You must exercise independent judgement
• You must exercise reasonable care, skill and diligence
• You must avoid conflicts of interest
• You must not accept third party benefits
• You must declare any personal interests

How to Apply

Find out more HERE

At Better Bankside, we celebrate diversity and promote equality and inclusion. We welcome applications from all, regardless of personal characteristics or background.

To apply, please send an expression of interest outlining your links to Bankside, why this opportunity appeals and what you would bring to the role to Pam Kalha by an email via the button below. Please also attach your CV.

Closing date: Monday 11 May, 5pm.

First interviews: Wednesday 3 June.

Second interviews: Tuesday 8 July (am), Monday 13 July (pm).

To arrange an informal conversation about the role please contact Edward Whatley, [email protected].