A new man has been appointed to drive forward ambitious plans to boost Oban’s business community.
Derek Connery, of Connel, near Oban, has been announced as the new manager of BID4Oban.
Mr Connery was formerly a sales manager for a food distribution company on the isle of Bute.
Graeme Bass, chairman of the Business Improvement District (Bid) group, said: “There was an extremely high level of interest in the post when it was advertised, both locally and across Scotland.
“We went through an extensive and rigorous recruitment process and Derek stood out as the exceptional candidate from a very strong field. He brings passion, enthusiasm, commitment and business experience to the role. He will be a great asset and will help us drive the business forward during the next few challenging years.”
Mr Connery, who took up his new responsibilities today, (mon) said: “I am delighted to have been appointed to this critical position. It will be both challenging and rewarding, and offers a real opportunity to build on the great work that has taken place over the last three years to make Oban an even better place to stay, explore and spend – for businesses, residents and visitors alike.
“The Bid project allows local business an opportunity for greater cooperation and the ability to speak collectively on important issues.”
BID4Oban Limited was established in November 2012. Its vision is to create a vibrant and vital town centre, with a supportive and involved business community.
The five-year business plan will see a total of £840,000 being invested to make improvements in the town, which include anything from improvements to shop fronts or empty premises, hanging baskets, to town ambassadors to provide information to visitors.
BID4Oban has been involved in organising a number of high profile events in the town, including the Skerryvovre Decade gig which saw 6,000 attend to see live music at Mossfield.
The group was also instrumental in moving Oban’s fireworks display to the town centre, and organising for businesses to stay open late on Guy Fawkes night.