Independent Members of the Board of Governors
The Roles:
Falmouth University
The Client:
Falmouth University, a cornerstone of creative and technological education, has pushed the boundaries of innovation for over a century. Their world-class facilities, stellar teaching and vibrant creative community earned the title of No.1 Arts University in the UK by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023. Guided by the principle of open innovation, their research and teaching programs empower students and researchers to excel in a rapidly changing world by harnessing the potential of creativity and technology – the foundations of the future economy – to make a positive, inclusive and sustainable impact.
The university aspires to be the beacon where creativity and technology seamlessly intertwine. They seek to cultivate the next generation of creative and technological visionaries – individuals who will shape the future with their insatiable curiosity, innovative impact and distinctive talents. To help achieve this vision, they approached us to bolster their Board of Governors with two Independent Members. We had a great experience with Falmouth University in 2019, successfully filling a vacant Board position with an exceptional candidate - who has since progressed to become the Board’s Chair. They were complimentary about the quality of the candidates we proposed and our smooth, hassle-free working process.
The Challenge
This was an exciting opportunity for us. We thoroughly enjoy recruiting within the Education sector and our experiences with organisations from Cornwall and Devon have been rewarding. However, the search process was not without challenges. Falmouth University were seeking individuals with proven leadership experience and strong interpersonal skills, alongside a passion for strategic development and driving organisational growth. For each position they needed individuals with a distinct expertise, either in capital projects and commercial ventures, or the creative and cultural industries. The location of Falmouth University provided a testing opportunity, as potential candidates had to live locally or be willing to travel.
Our Approach
The search was led by Sandy Hinks, Head of Moon’s Charity Practice, with assistance from Researcher, Leighann Beck. Our approach combined an extensive advertising campaign and an exploration of Sandy’s personal network and database. One candidate was discovered through our advertising operation, whilst our database search produced two more outstanding individuals. Following a screening and interview process of the three candidates, two were placed as Independent Board Members.
The Solution
Francoise Woodward was placed as an Independent Board Member based on her leadership experience in the tech sector and expertise in customer and brand-centric businesses.
Francoise commented:
‘I’m elated to join Falmouth University’s Board. I have been interested in education for some time. The creativity angle with Falmouth and connection to Cornwall, where I was raised, is brilliant for me.’
The other position was filled by Iain Ellwood. His background in generating growth for organisations in the creative sector really impressed our search team. Whilst his track record of advising Boards in successful endeavours sealed the deal.
Falmouth University were delighted by our transparent and approachable working method throughout the hiring process.
Robyn Wyatt, Head of Governance Services and Secretary to the Board, commented:
‘Moon Executive Search enabled the appointment of three exceptional non-executive Members of Falmouth University’s Board / Trustees – one appointed in 2019 who later went on to become Chair of our Board of Governors, and a further two successful appointments in 2023. The process was smooth and hassle-free - Moon’s communications dovetailed perfectly with our own. The quality of the applicants proposed by Moon was notably higher than from other sources, (they provided a small but very high-quality longlist for both campaigns), as well as a clearer sense of each candidate’s reasons for applying and suitability for the role on paper – making the task of shortlisting easier. I am sure we will work with Moon again, and wholly recommend their executive/non-executive search services’.
Moon Executive Search offers bespoke solutions for clients, utilising expertise and knowledge acquired over two decades of recruiting. We take pride in finding the perfect candidate for your Board.
Contact us by phone or email to find out more.
News, Insights and Trends
Find out more about Moon Executive Search and the articles, roles and thought-leadership from the business and non-profit landscape.