Lord Myners of Truro takes up role as University Chancellor

Cornishman Lord Myners, who was brought up in Truro by his adoptive parents, a butcher and a hairdresser, and has gone on to build up an international reputation and a distinguished business career.

Paul Myners has chaired household name companies including Marks & Spencer, the Guardian Media Group and Land Securities. He was Chairman of the Trustees of the Tate during a period of change in 2004 to 2008, and has held other non-commercial appointments including Chairman of the Low Pay Commission, a Directorship of Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund and membership of the Court of the Bank of England.

Paul, who holds the title Baron Myners, was appointed City Minister in Gordon Brown’s government in 2008, and joined the House of Lords as Lord Myners of Truro, in the County of Cornwall. He is now a crossbench member of the House. He continues to be active in a number of public and private companies primarily in the asset management sector. In 2003, he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Laws from the University of Exeter.

Paul will take over the mantle as Chancellor of the global 100 University from Baroness Floella Benjamin when she steps down in June, after ten years.

Paul Myners said: “I’m delighted and honoured to take up this post, and to be involved in the next stages of the University’s incredible journey. Alongside building up a reputation for world-leading research and excellent teaching and student satisfaction, I’ve been interested to see the University foster strong collaborations across the South West, notably in my home county of Cornwall. I believe these links have contributed to the success that has seen Exeter climb up the national and international rankings, and it’s very positive news for the region in terms of economic impact and raising aspiration. Floella has been a fantastic Chancellor and will be a tough act to follow, and I look forward to continuing her legacy of putting students first.”

Lord Myners went to Truro School on a scholarship, and obtained a degree from the University of London, and taught for a year in Inner London. He then proceeded, via journalism with the Daily Telegraph, to a twenty year career in the City as a fund manager and worked his way up to his prominent chairing roles.

Lord Myners is married to Alison, a Psychotherapist and Chair of the Institute of Contemporary Art. He has five children. He lives in London and Falmouth. His interests include contemporary art, opera and jazz, politics and penal reform.

Professor Sir Steve Smith, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Exeter, said: “I’m delighted to welcome Paul, whose passion for the Westcountry stands him in great stead to champion our ethos of partnership working both across the region and worldwide. He is highly influential on the national and international stage, and has built up a distinguished global reputation. He is a perfect fit for Exeter and I know he will make a fantastic Chancellor.”

Sarah Turvill Chair of Council, the governing body of the University of Exeter, said: “Lord Myners is a perfect fit with the University of Exeter. He has his roots firmly in the Westcountry, and he has shown vision and business acumen throughout his career. We’re delighted to have him onboard.”

Laura-Jane Tiley, President of the University of Exeter Students’ Guild, said: “With such an extensive and successful career, I am confident that Lord Myners will be a strong and inspiring role model for Exeter students. Having been involved in the selection process for the new chancellor, I look forward to welcoming him to the University in time for summer graduation.”

Grace Fisher, President of the Falmouth and Exeter Students Union, said: “To be able to welcome a Cornishman as the new Chancellor holds great significance for Cornwall based students. Lord Myners’ local roots and professional successes make him an ideal chancellor for the student population; one which connects directly with student’s experiences here in Cornwall. We look forward to welcoming him to our campuses soon.”