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# Local business leader Steve Flory to chair Ipswich Central
- URL: https://www.ipswich.co.uk/local-business-leader-steve-flory-to-chair-ipswich-central/
- Published: 2024-11-26T08:58:44.000Z
- Updated: 2026-03-16T15:29:25.000Z
- Description: Lifelong Ipswich resident and Hudson Group boss Steve Flory has been named as the new chair of Ipswich Central, pledging to transform the town centre into a "safer, more welcoming place."
- Author: Oliver Rouane-Williams
- Tags: News, BID, Tourism & Place, Business, #article, Ipswich Central, #Import 2026-03-16 14:46

**Why it matters**: The appointment brings four decades of commercial experience to the town's Business Improvement District (BID), which represents around 400 businesses in the town and works to help create a more vibrant, prosperous Ipswich for everyone.

**The big picture**: Flory takes the helm at a crucial time for Ipswich town centre, succeeding Terry Baxter who steps down after 10 years as chair.

![Steve Flory](https://storage.ghost.io/c/29/1e/291e4b7f-e551-4458-b546-61963954b22f/content/images/2026/03/1732609099-steve-flory-1.jpg)

Lifelong Ipswich resident and Hudson Group boss Steve Flory has been named as the new chair of Ipswich Central (All About Ipswich)

**What's new**:

- Flory will take over from 1 January 2025
- He brings over 40 years of private sector leadership experience
- The role oversees Ipswich's Business Improvement District (BID)
- Outgoing chair Baxter will become chief executive at Inspire and chair of Suffolk New College

**In his words**: "I don't believe in standing on the sidelines," says Flory. "Together, we can make Ipswich a safer, more welcoming place where people enjoy spending time. My goal is to bring the town back to the happier, vibrant place it deserves to be — for the benefit of businesses, residents, and visitors alike."

**Support from leadership**: Lee Walker, CEO of Ipswich Central, praised the appointment: "Steve's passion for Ipswich and its business community is clear, and his leadership will be invaluable as we continue to strengthen our efforts for the benefit of the town."

**Experience that counts**: As managing director of Hudson Group and a lifelong resident, Flory brings both commercial expertise and deep local knowledge to the role.

**The bottom line**: The appointment signals a new chapter for Ipswich town centre, with local business leader Flory promising hands-on leadership and a fresh push to reinvigorate the area.

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