Ricky Durkin

6:30am - 10:00am

Email the studio

Mary Mary

Shackles (Praise You)

Listen Live

Harrogate BID appoints Gemma Rio as interim CEO

Thursday, 26 June 2025 07:16

Gemma Rio has been appointed as the new interim CEO of Harrogate BID.

Harrogate Business Improvement District (BID) has appointed Gemma Rio as interim CEO following the departure of Matthew Chapman.

The BID said it has formally launched the recruitment process for a new Chief Executive.

Gemma's appointment is to ensure "continuity during this transition."

Matthew Chapman resigned last week with immediate effect.

BID Chair Simon Midgley said:

"The BID is committed to maintaining momentum across its core projects and initiatives while securing the right long-term leadership for the organisation.

"The search is now underway to appoint a permanent Chief Executive who will lead the BID into its next phase."

He added:

"To ensure continuity during this transition, Harrogate BID has appointed Gemma Rio as Interim CEO.

"Gemma’s experience in place leadership and destination management will support us as we continue to champion the interests of businesses across the town.”

More from Local News

Ripon Rotary's charity bike ride to return for sixth year

A popular charity cycling event organised by the Ripon Rotary Club is set to return for its sixth year.
Harrogate's beloved pantomime ranked among top 5 in UK

Harrogate Theatre's popular annual pantomime was recognised as one of the best in the country at the UK Pantomime Awards last night.
Sushi Panda on Knaresborough Road announces closure

A takeaway restaurant in Harrogate has announced it will be closing its doors.
Knaresborough Town women secure fourth consecutive promotion

Knaresborough Town Women have continued their extraordinary rise after securing a fourth consecutive promotion.
Newby Hall to host celebration of sports cars event

Spring Sports Cars in the Park is returning to Newby Hall.
Dragon Boat Race in aid of children's hospice returns this weekend

Almost 500 rowers will make a splash for cash this weekend when Martin House Children's Hospice's annual Dragon Boat Race returns.
Harrogate woman shortlisted for Pride in Diversity award

A Harrogate woman has been shortlisted at the Pride in Diversity Awards 2026 after a successful endometriosis fundraising event.
Police appeal after exposure incident in Harrogate

Police are appealing for information following a sexual offence in Harrogate last week.
Spofforth man completes Paris Marathon for life-saving charity

A member of staff from The Castle Inn in Spofforth has completed the iconic Paris Marathon, raising funds for the British Heart Foundation.
'It's not over' - Town boss defiant after huge win in relegation battle

Harrogate Town boss Simon Weaver declared "it's not over" after his side's last-gasp 1-0 win over Colchester United on Saturday.
Hampsthwaite garage named as finalist for prestigious national awards

Simon Graeme Auto Services Centre has been named as a finalist in this year’s Automechanika IAAF Garage Awards.
Harrogate Spring Water 'disappointed' as councillors refuse controversial expansion

Plans to expand the Harrogate Spring Water site in Harrogate have been refused by councillors, following strong local opposition and a lengthy planning process.
Police search for wanted Harrogate man

Police are searching for a man from Harrogate who has been recalled to prison.
New additions announced for return of Everything Electric North

Visitors to Everything Electric NORTH in Harrogate can look forward to two exciting and exclusive live experiences at this year’s event.
Police appeal following crash between Harrogate and Skipton

Police are appealing for information following a collision on the A59 between Harrogate and Skipton.
Date revealed for return of Knaresborough's Party in the Castle

The date has been confirmed for the return of one of Knaresborough's most popular summer events.
Ripon's Portly Pig named pub of the year

Ripon's Portly Pig has been named Harrogate & Ripon CAMRA Pub of the Year 2026.
GALLERY: Cherry blossom season begins in Harrogate

Cherry blossom season has arrived in Harrogate, with the town's iconic pink-lined avenues returning in full bloom.
Runners invited to take on scenic Nidderdale 10k race

Runners from across Yorkshire and beyond are set to take part in the Run Nidderdale 10K - a trail race through the stunning landscape of Nidderdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Ripon Grammar School receives 'glowing' report from school's guide

Ripon Grammar School has been praised by a prestigious national schools' guide.