The British Interactive Media Association (BIMA) describes itself as ‘Britain’s digital community’ – accurate, considering its pioneering influence on both the digital industry and its members.

Since being founded in 1985, the association has enjoyed success after success, recognised through its continued innovation in the digital sector and annual events, such as the prestigious BIMA Awards. Now in its 33rd year, it seems apt that trade body should welcome in 2018 with two major changes.

On 1 February, it was announced that Holly Hall has been appointed managing director of BIMA, replacing outgoing Bridget Beale. Beale became the organisation’s first managing director in 2014. In an industry still dominated by male influence, the election of a second successive female reflects BIMA’s proud forward-facing ideology. Hall’s background as international business development director for D&AD, the global educational charity which exists to promote excellence in design and advertising, also reflects her creative side and passion for delivering successful, creative programmes and events for members.

“I’m delighted to be joining BIMA at what is a hugely exciting time for the organisation,” says Hall.

“BIMA occupies a unique position, and I’m committed to ensuring that, through our strategic partnerships, through our increasingly vital councils and think tanks, and through our ongoing programme of events, we remain a champion for people within the digital industries, and a champion for the good that digital can do for the British economy,” Hall explains.

Natalie Gross and Tarek Nseir, co-presidents of BIMA, say, “During our search for a new MD, we were clear we wanted someone who would be a great cultural fit for BIMA and who could support us in delivering on our strategy to make BIMA the leading voice for British digital innovation and community.”

They continue, “In [Holly’s] career to date she has demonstrated an ability to deliver innovation and growth, and to develop commercial and strategic partnerships – and of course run fantastic awards. We’re looking forward to seeing her apply that same skillset at BIMA, for the benefit of our members and for Britain’s digital economy.”

Furthermore, a key change with which Hall is charged is a new corporate partnership between BIMA and global tech company Microsoft. Also announced on 1 February, BIMA’s new association with Microsoft will see the trade body’s members gain access to unique Microsoft technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual reality and automated reality. The company will also run live events open to BIMA members, and both parties will benefit from expertise in both areas.

Paul Bolt, SMB director at Microsoft, says, “This new initiative opens opportunities to build genuine agency partnerships with Microsoft and utilise cloud platforms that offer significant value for the end brands they serve through technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning , IoT, blockchain and conversational UI.”

“I’m sure that this time next year we will be reflecting on a truly transformative partnership, for BIMA, our members and the output of the British digital industry,” says Bolt.

Tarek Nseir, president of BIMA, adds, “Microsoft has created a truly groundbreaking set of capabilities in data, cloud computing and cognitive services. What’s more, it is making a significant investment in partnering with progressive agencies, consultancies, brands and start-ups to make the best use of its technology.”

Nseir continues, “By partnering with Microsoft, our members can nurture their existing tech talent, empowering everyone, from employees to customers, to be more collaborative and creative. All agencies, irrespective of size, will now have access to the same market leading technology to help positively shape the culture of the modern workplace, and the UK economy as a whole.”           

The changes with which BIMA has welcomed 2018 cement its reputation as an organisation that puts its members at its heart. An authority on digital in the UK, BIMA’s future plans for innovation will no doubt provide insight and leadership for its multitude of connections and groups.

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