The Bath Business Improvement District, which works to help companies in the city succeed, has appointed Jess Merritt-Johns of Jolly’s Department Store as its new chair of the board.
Jess Merrit-Johns, Allison Herbert and Michael Musgrave | Photo © Bath BID
Ms Merritt-Johns replaces Michael Musgrave of the Apex City of Bath Hotel, who is stepping down from the BID board to pursue a new position at Apex Hotels.
She is the Operations Lead and General Manager of Jolly’s Department Store, which is now part of the Morleys Group.
She brings a wealth of experience in retail management, innovative operational strategies and leadership development within the organisation.
Speaking of the appointment, Jess said: “I am honoured and excited to have taken on the role of chair of the Bath BID – I have worked in and around this city for the past 15 years and have seen much of the wonderful work and positive impact the BID has had, and am looking forward to supporting the continuation and development of this.
“I am very passionate about the success of our High Streets, and a big believer that retail still has a firm place among it.
“I will be supporting businesses across the city in whatever way that I can, with a personal focus on driving quality footfall and continuing to bring success to a thriving city centre.”
The outgoing chair, Michael Musgrave, said, “I am honoured to have been the chair of the Bath BID.
“I am proud of the work that the BID has done over my tenure, focusing on supporting business growth, enhancing the welcome of the city and fostering a strong sense of community.”
London-based Morleys Stores took over the Jolly’s site in Milsom Street earlier this year. It is currently going through a significant renovation process and will be opening in October next year.
Jess is currently overseeing a number of projects including the renovation works, a visitor centre based on Jolly’s 200-year history and community partnerships and events.
Allison Herbert, CEO at Bath BID, said: “We have been really lucky to have had Michael Musgrave expertly leading as the chair of the board for the last year and are looking forward working with Jess.
“She has a clear passion for, and experience in, retail management and as an active member of the Bath business community, she is ideally placed to help us to continue to best serve the interests of the district.”
