This month we meet BTMB Chairman Mike Francis. Director of Westbourne Academy and Bournemouth resident for 59 years, Mike has led the Board for the last 2 years since its formation in 2006.

In his role as Chairman, Mike encourages people and the trade to come forward in the town’s decision and to work together to achieve results. “It is important they all have an awareness of the significant part they play as employers and in tourism, community and the life of the town”.

Mike started his career as a fashion buyer for a national company, but a dislike of the business world took him to what would be his chosen professional – education. “Initially I taught in a state school but when an offer to work in Casablanca was proposed I accepted and lived there for a year”. Returning back to Bournemouth, Mike worked at a number of schools before establishing the Westbourne Academy, in 1996, which later included a Switzerland based Westbourne Academy.

In your opinion, what has changed in Bournemouth and the international education industry over the years?
“As a tourist town we have changed. We’re a family town attracting all ages and not just the older people. As for the development of language schools, when I started there were just 5 in Bournemouth and Poole but now there are nearly 30 year-round language schools – that’s a huge change. This has transformed the ethos of the town. With international students comes a greater spending power and this international flavour and effect has influenced the resort. I see the formation of the BTMB and its ongoing development being key to maintaining Bournemouth in its number one position in tourism. From the trade's point of view this gives them a voice to make and influence decisions”.

What has been your greatest achievement - both as BTMB Chairman and professionally?
“As Chairman, it has to be bringing Poole and Bournemouth closer together and helping them realise what each other has to offer; replacing the parochial approach with the amazing joint offer we have in the area for past, present and potential visitors. Professionally it has to be the two schools; opening them both from zero and seeing them develop with great results and obviously enhancing the lives of the students that come to visit and learn with the Academy.”

What would you like to achieve for Bournemouth whilst Chairman?
“A hugely successful Air Festival that becomes an annual affair, synonymous with Bournemouth, as Cowes is for the Isle of Wight; with everyone being part of the festivities, from residents to the trade and holidaymakers. For the town I want it to continue to maintain and develop the tourism package and its position as number one seaside resort in the UK”.

What are you doing to support the More Bus Bournemouth Air Festival?
We’re promoting it via our website and including leaflets in student and family packs. International Education Forum, University and colleges are all actively involved, having had visits and presentations. Groups of students will be attending, but we also want to get them involved with the festival itself.

Next month we meet Rosemary Classon, General Manager of Borders Bookshop and sector head representative for the Town Centre.