Cambridge Business Improvement District (BID) has appointed three new directors to further diversify its existing high-calibre board.
Nick Finlayson-Brown, a partner at law firm Mills & Reeve, is joined by Simon Wallis, development director at Brookgate, and David Ormrod, general manager and licensee of The Regal pub in Cambridge.
Both Mills & Reeve and Brookgate are located within the Station Square/Hills Road/CB1 area, which became part of the BID area, when it was extended last April (2018).
Specialising in real estate work, Nick Finlayson-Brown has over 25 years’ experience acting for key clients in the public, private and charity sectors and, as such, is especially well placed to understand the needs of the local business community. In addition to his position as Head of Office for Mills & Reeve Cambridge, he also heads up the firm’s China Desk, helping to grow links with Chinese investors interested in investing in Cambridge businesses as well as UK clients looking to enter the Chinese market.
Nick said: “I am especially keen to be involved and get others involved in community-based projects that enhance the opportunities for all and the surroundings within which we live and work, with a view to furthering Cambridge’s reputation as a centre for investment and social inclusion.”
Simon Wallis has been with Brookgate for four years, managing a string of complex commercial and mixed-use development projects including the award-winning One Station Square office development and the Grimshaw-designed 50/60 Station Road. Past projects he has been involved with include the redevelopment of the Bullring shopping centre in Birmingham.
Simon commented: “Cambridge station and the CB1 estate is the gateway to the city for millions each year and improving its integration with the city centre is a key focus for Cambridge BID. I look forward to working collaboratively in advancing the BID’s initiatives to support the fast-growing business community in the station area.”
David Ormrod has been a pub manager for JD Wetherspoons for 14 years and the licensee of The Regal on St Andrew’s Street for just over two years. He brings a wealth of expertise in both the hospitality trade and night-time economy having previously worked for Greene King, Punch Taverns and Enterprise Inns as well as independently owned and run public houses. He is also on the board of Cambridge Business Against Crime (CAMBAC) as well as being involved in the Cambridge BID Purple Flag project group.
David said: “This is great opportunity to get involved in projects which relate to Cambridge’s night time economy. Having previously worked in Norwich, which has been awarded purple flag status for two years running now, I am especially keen to see Cambridge achieve the same, and be nationally recognised as a city which provides entertaining, safe and diverse nights out.”
Ian Sandison, CEO of Cambridge BID, said: “I am delighted to welcome these three very talented individuals to our high-calibre board. They each bring fresh perspectives and insights through their business representation.
“Last April, we extended the BID area to include the Station area and Hills Road, and it has been important to support this with appointments from the new area to help develop projects that are professional sector-focused. Our night time economy is, similarly, an important sector for Cambridge – and David Ormrod brings with him a wealth of expertise in this area.
“All three directors have a shared interest in creating a world-class destination for all who visit, live and work in Cambridge.”
