Isle of Wight Council recruits to key positions at new Ryde Town Board

The Isle of Wight Council is seeking applications to join the new Ryde Town Board which will lead the transformation of Ryde through development of a long-term plan for the town and an investment of £20 million over 10 years.

The Council is currently seeking applications from local businesspeople for a number of key Board roles, including an independent Chair and Deputy Chair. Applications are also sought for other Board Member roles; including from individuals with a focus on High Streets, Heritage and Regeneration and Community representation in particular.

Ryde is one of 55 towns to benefit from national Levelling Up investment, as part of a long-term plan for towns. Each town will have a new Town Board made up of local community leaders and employers, and the Chair will act as a champion for the town, ensuring the Town Board is community-led and effective at targeting investment which help build a better future for local people.

Councillor Phil Jordan, Leader of Isle of Wight Council, said: "A long term plan with such significant national investment provides an unprecedented opportunity to build a bright and prosperous future for Ryde. 

“This is an exciting opening for an inspirational individual to chair the Ryde Town Board, leading the direction which will transform Ryde into a town of aspiration and achievement, one that embraces new technology and sustainability, and with a strong sense of community and local pride."

The Ryde Town Board will work closely with local people on investment priorities which will deliver change and steer the long-term vision for Ryde. The newly established Town Board will be the decision-making body responsible for leading the development and delivery of the plan across the broad themes of safety and security; high streets, heritage and regeneration; and transport and connectivity.

The Isle of Wight Council is seeking to establish the Ryde Town Board as soon as possible and is seeking applications for a minimum of four positions on the Board including:

• Ryde Town Board Chair
• Ryde Town Board Deputy Chair
• At least two Board Member roles - with a focus on High Streets, Heritage and Regeneration and Community representation in particular

Applications to all positions are welcomed until 1 March 2024.  Interviews for the Chair position will take place on 8 March.  Applicants to other board positions will receive the outcome of shortlisting the week of 18 March.

Full role profiles, application packs and details of how to apply for each position are available at https://solentpartners.com/about-us/vacancies/