/ BID News, Business News / By Rory Lewis
Tell us a little bit about you and your company
I am the Building Manager of The Lightbox, a multi-let office building on Willoughby Road within the Southern Business Area. I’ve been working at The Lightbox since 2018.
Can you give us some background to your working career?
My career began in social care, where I started as a support worker for adults with learning disabilities and progressed to become a Residential Care Home Manager. I later took on the role of Operations Manager within the same field. These roles gave me strong transferable skills in customer service, health and safety and building regulations, which led me to move into commercial building management.
Why are you a BID board director and why do you volunteer your time for the local business community?
I first became aware of the BID when the idea was being introduced, and businesses were invited to vote on it back in 2020. Over the years, I became increasingly involved and, in 2023, I was asked to join the Project Working Group. I enjoy working with the BID and contributing ideas that I believe benefit not only the tenants at The Lightbox, but other businesses in the area. Initiatives such as the shuttle bus, the cycle scheme and staff training are all projects that make a positive impact within the BID area. After about a year on the Project Group, I was invited to become a board member. I was delighted to accept, as I could see the significant benefits the BID was delivering and wanted to be part of driving that positive change.
Why are you passionate about the Bracknell BID area?
I am passionate about the wide range of support the BID offers to local businesses of all sizes within the BID area. Projects such as litter picking, CCTV and ANPR improvements, and efforts to build a stronger sense of community have made a real difference.
What skills and experience do you bring to the BID board?
I bring local knowledge from both living and working in the Bracknell area since 2018. As a building manager, I engage daily with multiple businesses, tenants, contractors and visitors, which gives me a good understanding of what is important for local organisations and the area as a whole.
What projects or initiatives that the BID has delivered are you most proud of?
I am most proud of the shuttle bus and cycle scheme, the employee training sessions and the wellbeing activities for staff.
What difference do you hope the BID will have made in the next five years?
I would like to see the BID continue to strengthen the sense of community and networking among businesses, and to continue with developing initiatives that help retain and attract companies to the area.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
In my free time, I love to travel. I’m always keen to visit new places, experience different cultures and create special memories with friends and family.
What’s the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?
The best business advice anyone’s every given me would be the concept that a well-organised approach provides a solid foundation for success.