Watford town centre businesses are set for a major investment boost following the appointment of new leadership at Watford BID Ltd. Effective 1 April 2026, the non-profit organisation has appointed Kara Mesiano as Chief Executive and Company Secretary to oversee an investment programme totalling over £4.8 million for the local area over the next five years.
The organisation, which has supported local traders since 2016 through a levy on business rates, will direct over £3 million into the town centre and over £1.8 million into the Clarendon district between 1 April 2026 and 31 March 2031. These plans follow successful ballots from local organisations to continue the town centre programme for a third term and to launch a new improvement district in the Clarendon area.
Kara Mesiano, who previously served as the organisation’s BID Manager and Company Secretary, will lead the delivery of these projects. As part of the expanded operations, the organisation is creating two new roles: a Corporate Business Support Manager to assist Clarendon district businesses and a Digital Marketing Executive to promote the wider area, including the historic Watford Market on The Parade.
Under the new structure, a dedicated Governance Committee will also be established for the Clarendon district to ensure local businesses have a direct voice in how funds are used. The organisation remains supported by nearly 500 local businesses, with the board led by Chairman Simon Plumb, who also serves as the Centre Director of Harlequin Watford.
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