High Wycombe BIDCo has announced the appointment of its new CEO. Susan Hynard, who will officially take on the role in early 2025, will succeed Melanie Williams, who has led the organisation for the past six years and is set to step down on January 30, 2025.
Susan brings a wealth of experience to the position, having previously managed the parliamentary office of former Wycombe MP, Steve Baker. With a strong background in administration, organisation, and advocacy, she has held several leadership roles that have enabled her to develop a deep understanding of how businesses interact with councils and public bodies. She is also a long-time resident of High Wycombe and has forged strong relationships with local businesses and stakeholders.
Discussing her new role, Susan said: “I am both excited and honoured to take on the role of CEO at HWBIDCo. High Wycombe’s town centre is at a pivotal moment, and I look forward to working with the board and local businesses to continue the BID’s work in making the town a thriving place for business.
I would also like to pay tribute to my predecessor, Melanie Williams, for her leadership and the strides she has made in improving High Wycombe. I am eager to build upon this legacy and help guide the BID towards even greater success in the years ahead.”
Susan is already involved in several initiatives aimed at enhancing High Wycombe — including a project focused on improving the area’s railway estate. Her appointment marks a new chapter for HWBIDCo as it continues its mission to support businesses, improve the town centre, and foster a vibrant community.
Outgoing CEO Melanie Williams has been a transformative leader during her tenure, overseeing projects that have brought millions of pounds of investment into High Wycombe’s town centre. Reflecting on her time with HWBIDCo, Melanie said: “Leaving an organisation with such an important mission, and a town that I care deeply about, is not easy, especially with so much work still to be done following the recent budget announcements. However, I am proud to hand over the reins to Susan Hynard, who shares my commitment to driving positive change in High Wycombe’s town centre and championing the needs of local businesses.
Over the last six years, I have had the privilege of working alongside an incredible community of business owners, stakeholders, and partners. Together, we’ve delivered significant projects that have seen several million pounds invested into the town centre, creating lasting improvements for the local economy. I am grateful for all the support, collaboration, and dedication that has made this possible.”
As HWBIDCo prepares to welcome Susan as its new CEO, the organisation would like to take this opportunity to express its heartfelt gratitude to Melanie for her exceptional leadership and the lasting impact she has made to High Wycombe. The team looks forward to continuing its work to make the town centre a thriving hub for businesses and the community.