Alan is an accomplished academic and recognised leader in the higher education sector. A former Rector of Falmouth University and long-time contributor to Higher Education and the cultural and creative communities in Cornwall, Alan received the London Cornwall Award for services to Cornwall in 2007 and a CBE for services to Higher Education in 2006.
An alumnus of Ulster University’s Belfast College of Art, where he worked for a time as an external examiner and a Visiting Professor, Alan continues to take an active interest in his alma mater. He has been in instrumental in setting up visiting Lectures by famous designers including Sir John Sorrell and Sebastian Conran.
Alan has been involved at a senior level with several prestigious national bodies including Arts Council England, Design Council, Council for National Academic Awards where he served as chair, and is a longstanding member of the Royal Mail Stamp Advisory Committee. He also has strong links with the flourishing arts and cultural scene in Cornwall which currently includes chairing the board of the internationally acclaimed Kneehigh Theatre.