Andover Business Improvement District has appointed William “Bill” Hawkins as its new BID Manager, bringing with him more than 37 years of military leadership and digital transformation experience.
Originally from southeast London, Bill has longstanding connections to Andover after first being based in the town in 1995 during his military career. Having chosen to make Andover his permanent home five years ago, he said taking on the new role is “an enormous privilege”.
During his military service, Bill held global assignments and most recently worked at Army Headquarters in Andover, where he helped deliver major Defence digital services and transformation projects.
His appointment comes as the BID looks to relaunch and refocus its work supporting town centre businesses, charities, public bodies and stakeholders.
Speaking at the Andover BID Levy Payers’ Forum on 12 May, Bill outlined plans to create “a transparent, collaborative and efficient BID that delivers maximum value for levy payers”.
He said the BID would focus on making the best use of limited resources while strengthening partnerships across the town.
Bill said: “It’s an enormous privilege to serve a town I care deeply about.
“I have an ambitious plan to refocus what the BID does and ensure that levy payers receive value for money. The efficient use of very limited resources and strong partnerships with stakeholders will be the key to our success.”
As part of his early work, Bill has already completed induction and training, facilitated a board meeting and set the BID’s annual budget. He has also met with a range of organisations and stakeholders, including Hampshire Constabulary, Test Valley Borough Council teams, Andover Vision, councillors and antisocial behaviour forums involving the local MP and Police and Crime Commissioner.
The BID’s priorities for the coming year include improving safety and crime reduction services, increasing footfall through events and social media promotion, representing levy payers’ interests with local authorities and stakeholders, and diversifying income streams.
Other initiatives planned include reviewing regulatory compliance, refreshing the InAndover website, creating a levy payer portal, improving communications through technology and partnerships with Andover Radio, and working with neighbouring BIDs to share best practice.
Bill also said he wants the BID to better explain its purpose and provide businesses with “easy access to useful tools and information” that can support them.
Andover BID’s vision is described as “a partnership between businesses and other stakeholders that promotes a thriving town centre”.