Ann Hunter, BID Manager for InExeter announces her departure
Ann Hunter, BID Manager at InExeter the Business Improvement District for Exeter city centre has decided to resign from her role and will leave in July following five and a half successful years.
“It has been an absolute privilege to work here in this great city, to support and raise the profile of our brilliant local businesses, animate, and activate the city and add to its vibrancy” said Ann of her time running InExeter.
A passionate advocate for Exeter, Ann has been instrumental in supporting and raising the profile of businesses in the city. Under her leadership, InExeter achieved significant milestones such as a renewal in 2019, the first closed road Sunday Christmas celebration welcoming 25,000 people, the city’s first investment in street dressing and the revival of Exeter Carnival after 24 years.
To support the growth of emerging businesses, increase footfall and dwell InExeter has invested in markets within the city as well as launching an independent gift card which encourages the community to invest back into the city allowing it to thrive.
Making Exeter a safe and welcoming space for all is a central aim for InExeter and through Ann’s vision InExeter bid for funding and successfully opened Exeter Safe Space in November 2022. There has also been significant work on the InExeter brand, start of a street art programme, a night time strategy and the feasibility for Fore Street and Musgrave Row are just some of the proud achievements for Ann during her time with InExeter.
Ann commented, "It has been an absolute privilege to work here, to support and raise the profile of our brilliant businesses, animate, and activate the city and add to its vibrancy. I am so genuinely passionate about the city and its potential. Leaving comes with mixed emotion, as there is still much to achieve for InExeter, but I, on much reflection, feel it is the right time to start a new chapter. The team we have built are incredible, committed and passionate about the city, so I know it’s in very capable hands."
All the InExeter Board members expressed their gratitude for Ann's incredible and far-reaching contributions and commitment to the organisation. Chair of the Board, Patrick Cunningham comments “Ann has been a trailblazer for positive change in Exeter, with a remarkable vision and drive that have left a lasting impact on the city and its businesses. Her exceptional leadership has been invaluable, and we are deeply grateful for her unwavering dedication over the past five and a half years. We extend our heartfelt appreciation and best wishes for the future.”
Following the announcement, Ann will work closely with the Board through the transition period and recruitment of a new BID Manager who will steer InExeter successfully into a new term.
