Falmouth Harbour Opens Recruitment for New Commissioners and Chair

Falmouth Harbour is on the lookout for two new Commissioners to join its Board and has opened up a competitive search for the next Chair, with appointments set to begin on 1st January 2026. These roles will play a key part in shaping the future of what is described as Cornwall’s most diverse and strategically important port.

Strengthening the Harbour’s Governance

The appointments come as Falmouth Harbour, the UK’s Atlantic gateway and the 3rd deepest natural harbour in the world, enters a new phase of growth. With a Marine Development Masterplan, ambitious sustainability goals and a clear vision to become the UK’s best harbour to invest in, live beside and visit, the new positions are described as a rare opportunity to influence both the Harbour and Cornwall’s wider economy and environment.

The Harbour Board, which oversees Falmouth Harbour, Falmouth Haven and Falmouth Pilot Services, says the new Commissioners will bring fresh skills and perspectives to balance commercial growth, leisure and environmental stewardship.

The Chair role will be openly advertised in line with Ports Good Governance Guidance, with current Chair Mark Chanter supporting the process and confirming his own intention to apply. He will not be involved in the recruitment to avoid any conflict of interest.

Community at the Heart

Falmouth Harbour is particularly keen to appoint a Community Commissioner to ensure local perspectives remain central to decision-making. As a Trust Port, it is managed for the benefit of stakeholders and the wider community, with priorities including heritage, leisure, the environment and public access.

Applications are encouraged from those with a strong connection to the local area, either through lived experience, involvement in local organisations or an understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing Falmouth and Cornwall.

In addition, the Board is seeking expertise in areas such as board-level governance and commercial shipping. Candidates for the Chair role should have proven leadership and governance experience, with the ability to drive strategic growth, support sustainability and strengthen stakeholder relationships.

The Maritime/Shipping Commissioner role is expected to attract applicants with recent commercial shipping, port or pilotage experience, with potential for leading on marine safety compliance.

Farewell to Long-Serving Commissioners

The new appointments come as Gerald Pitts and John Elliot step down after completing their terms of office. Gerald is recognised for bringing decades of shipping industry knowledge and corporate governance oversight, while John, a local resident and kayaker, is noted for championing community voices and water users. He also chaired both the Pilotage Standards Committee and the Falmouth Pilotage Services panel.

Falmouth Harbour Chief Executive Miles Carden said,

“This is a defining moment for Falmouth Harbour. With two new Commissioners joining and an open search for the next Chair, we are strengthening both governance and ambition. I also want to thank Gerald and John for their outstanding service — their legacy has helped us become a leading, award-winning Harbour.”

Chair Mark Chanter added,

“I’m proud that we are taking this step to open the Chair recruitment. It is right for our stakeholders and it demonstrates our commitment to modern, transparent governance. I will be applying, and I welcome the open process that will ensure the strongest leadership for Falmouth Harbour.”

Recruitment Led by Public Leaders Appointments

The search is being led by Anna Jay, Managing Director of Public Leaders Appointments. She said,

“Having worked with Falmouth Harbour for a number of years, I am delighted to have the opportunity to lead the search for these critical appointments. The previous three Commissioners appointed through rigorous search have strengthened and diversified the Board, bringing new skills, expertise, and perspectives. This is an exciting time for new Board Members to contribute to the ambitious development of Cornwall’s most diverse and strategically important Harbour.”

Anna, who launched Public Leaders Appointments eight years ago, works with public sector and civil society organisations nationwide and is based in Cornwall.

How to Apply

The roles require a commitment of around two days per month and are remunerated. Full details can be found on the Falmouth Harbour website.

Applications close at midday on Wednesday 22nd October 2025.

📷Falmouth Harbour from St Anthony Point. Photo Shark Bay for Falmouth Harbour