Falmouth University announces appointment of next Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive

Falmouth University is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Larra Anderson as its next Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive.

With a creative background as an award-winning filmmaker and extensive experience in academic leadership she has a deep understanding of Falmouth’s distinctive strengths and the expertise to take the institution into its next chapter.

Professor Anderson joins Falmouth from the University of Essex, where she is currently Pro Vice-Chancellor (Education) and Professor of Screen. She has held senior roles including Pro Vice-Chancellor (Academic) at Norwich University of the Arts, Dean of Screen at University of the Arts London and Director of the Northern Film School at Leeds Beckett University.

This is an important moment for Falmouth. As the University enters its 125th year, it is well positioned for the future, building on stable financial foundations, progress in student success and growing and diversified academic provision.  

Chair of the Board of Governors, Helen Owers said, “Professor Anderson brings a fantastic skill set and strong alignment with Falmouth’s mission and values. Through her creative expertise, strategic leadership, commitment to inclusive, values-led leadership, we are confident that she is exceptionally well placed to lead Falmouth as we deliver against our future ambitions. We are looking forward to welcoming her to Cornwall and to our dynamic, future-facing institution.”  

Commenting on her appointment, Professor Anderson said, “I am delighted to be joining Falmouth University as its next Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive.  Its unique blend of creativity, technology and industry, its pride both in its heritage and its community, and its sense of place and commitment to Cornwall as an anchor university all speak to me directly.  I look forward to collaborating with staff, students and partners to strengthen that mission. This is a unique institution at an important time in a special place, and I am deeply honoured to be able to serve it.”

Professor Anderson will be joining us as Vice-Chancellor (Designate) from 2 November 2026. She will undertake a transition and induction period before assuming the responsibilities of Vice-Chancellor, Chief Executive and Accountable Officer from 1 January 2027. Falmouth's current Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive Professor Emma Hunt will remain in post until 31 December 2026 to support the handover and ensure continuity of leadership ahead of her retirement in 2027.