Watford BID Ltd, the organisation responsible for the governance and management of both Watford Town Centre BID and Watford Clarendon BID, has today announced a new organisational structure for its BID team following a meeting between company Board of Directors.
Effective from 1 April 2026, Kara Mesiano has been appointed Chief Executive & Company Secretary and will lead the strategic direction and operational delivery of both Watford Town Centre BID and Watford Clarendon BID.
Kara joined Watford BID Ltd in October 2020 as Business Support Manager. Her strong performance led to her promotion to BID Manager & Company Secretary in July 2023. During her tenure, Kara has demonstrated exceptional leadership, notably securing a 92% majority vote in favour of a third five-year term for Watford Town Centre BID, followed by a 71% majority supporting the establishment of a first five-year term for Watford Clarendon BID.
Commenting on her appointment, Kara Mesiano, Chief Executive of Watford BID Ltd, said:
“I am incredibly proud to step into the role of Chief Executive at such a pivotal and exciting time for Watford BID Ltd. As Watford Town Centre BID enters its third term and Watford Clarendon BID begins its first, we are well positioned to deliver two strong and distinct business plans, while building greater collaboration across both areas.
I look forward to working closely with our businesses, partners and stakeholders to drive investment, innovation and meaningful impact across Watford.”
As part of the new structure, Glen Hempenstall has been appointed Head of Marketing & Events. In this role, he will lead on promoting Watford Town Centre and positioning Clarendon Road as a premier business destination, supported by a comprehensive and dynamic events programme.
Glen joined the organisation in May 2019 as Marketing & Communications Manager and has since played a key role in significantly enhancing Watford Town Centre’s digital presence and reputation as a leading visitor destination.
Fiona Hadley has been appointed Business Support Manager and will take on increased responsibility for ensuring the effective delivery of Watford Town Centre BID projects and activities in line with the approved business plan.
Fiona joined Watford BID Ltd in July 2024 as a Trainee BID Executive and has consistently demonstrated strong progression, acting as a primary point of contact for levy payers and providing valuable support across a wide range of BID initiatives.
Watford BID Ltd will also be recruiting for two new roles: a Corporate Business Support Manager to support engagement with Watford Clarendon BID levy payers, and a Digital Marketing Executive to further strengthen the promotion of both Watford Town Centre and the Clarendon Road district.
John Hattingh and Cameron Evans will continue in their respective roles as Watford Business Against Crime Officer and Cardboard Collection Service Coordinator, having consistently delivered excellent results in their positions to date.
Commenting on the new structure, Simon Plumb, Chairman of Watford BID Ltd and Harlequin Watford Centre Director, said:
“Our Board has full confidence in Kara and the team to deliver against the ambitious plans for both Watford Town Centre BID and Watford Clarendon BID. We are entering an exciting new chapter, and this strengthened structure ensures we are well positioned to drive continued growth, collaboration and long-term impact across both BID areas.”
The governance arrangements for Watford Clarendon BID will include the establishment of a dedicated Governance Committee, creating a clear and formal mechanism for levy payer representation and engagement. The Governance Committee will provide valuable business insight to help shape BID priorities, review progress and support transparency and accountability. This will ensure levy payer voices are heard with a direct link to the Board of Directors whilst the BID delivers the 2026-2031 business plan.
Looking ahead, Watford BID Ltd will deliver over £3 million of investment into Watford Town Centre and over £1.8 million of investment into the Clarendon district from 1 April 2026 – 31 March 2031.
Watford Town Centre BID 2026 – 2031 Business Plan
Watford Clarendon BID 2026 – 2031 Business Plan
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