Falmouth Harbour – Chair & Commissioner NED Appointments

Shape the future of the UK’s Atlantic Gateway

About us

Falmouth Harbour is one of the UK’s most strategically important trust ports – the 3rd deepest natural harbour in the world, and the first and last major port in the UK for vessels crossing the North Atlantic. For over 150 years we’ve safeguarded our waters, driven innovation, supported our community, and led on environmental stewardship.

We are now entering an exciting growth phase, with a new Marine Development Masterplan, ambitious sustainability targets, and a clear vision to be the UK’s best harbour to invest in, live beside, and visit.

We are currently seeking exceptional leaders to join our Board, including our next Chair and two Commissioners (one with maritime/shipping expertise, one community appointment) to join our small and dynamic Board who are entrusted with the Harbour future and have strategic oversight of a wide range of activities which are vital to the safe management and economic prosperity of the Falmouth Harbour.

This is amazing opportunity to contribute not just to Falmouth Harbour, but to the economic and environmental sustainability of Falmouth and Cornwall.

We’re looking for:

The Board is selected to provide a broad mix of skills appropriate to the roles that we undertake.  There are a number of areas of expertise that will be beneficial for the overall Board effectiveness and in this round of recruitment we are particularly interested in hearing from candidates with board level experience (director or senior management) who can meet one of the following:

• Chair – An experienced leader with strong governance skills and board-level expertise, able to drive strategic growth, champion sustainability, and strengthen stakeholder relationships.
• Maritime Commissioner – Ideally with recent commercial shipping, port or pilotage experience, to lead on marine safety and PMSC compliance.
• Community Commissioner – A long-term resident who understands and represents our local community.

The successful applicants will have good interpersonal skills, independence of thought and an ability to challenge constructively while making balanced and informed decisions. You must be able to demonstrate a high degree of personal integrity.

Why join us?

• Contribute to a thriving harbour and community.
• Apply your expertise to complex and rewarding challenges.
• Help shape a sustainable maritime future.

How to Apply

For full details, download the attached brief and for a confidential conversation, please contact: Anna Jay, Managing Director – Public Leaders Appointments;

anna@publicleadersappointments.com |  07904 236 348

Application deadline: Midday, Wednesday 22nd October 2025