Falmouth Harbour Commissioners (FHC) is looking for a new member to join its Board of Commissioners, but anyone interested needs to apply by November 4.

The harbour authority is responsible for the management, maintenance and regulation of the Port of Falmouth. The board is responsible for the strategic oversight of a wide range of activities that are vital to the safe management and economic prosperity of the port.

In addition to being accountable for the proper exercise of the authority’s statutory functions, the board also oversees facility development projects and partnership working, such as involvement in the Port of Falmouth Development Initiative (PFDI) and the setting up of the FaBTest site for testing wave energy devices.

Candidates are generally expected to have wide and relevant experience, preferably at senior management or board level. The board are looking for candidates who possess a range of qualities including personal drive, vision, confidence and effective communication. They also want to ensure the board maintains the necessary range of key skills, including shipping, commercial expertise, business and strategic planning, change management, community engagement and environmental awareness.

After 12 years serving as a commissioner, FHC chairman, Dave Ellis, will be standing down in December and handing over his role to Carrie Gilmore, a consultant with more than 30 years of human resources and management experience.

Mr Ellis said: “In line with good governance and to benefit from new ideas and attitudes, we rotate board membership regularly. Commissioners can only serve three terms. It’s been a privilege to have led the board during such an interesting period and I hope that my successor, Carrie Gilmore, finds the role as enjoyable as I have done.”

Ms Gilmore, who joined the board in 2013, said: “Falmouth Harbour Commissioners is an exciting organisation and the range of responsibilities and challenges we deal with day-to day are incredibly diverse.

“The role is demanding and challenging so we are looking for new board members who will remain committed and dedicated throughout their appointment. We will also be looking for skills and knowledge that complement those of the existing members. Being a commissioner is a great opportunity to make a difference and support the economic well-being of Falmouth and Cornwall as a whole.”

Anyone interested can download a job description and application form from falmouthharbour.co.uk. Interviews will take place on November 23 and 24.