Exeter Science Park has paid tribute to its outgoing chief executive, Dr Sally Basker, celebrating almost a decade of leadership that has transformed the Park into one of the South West’s leading centres for science, technology and innovation.
Friends, colleagues, partners and family gathered at Exeter Science Park to mark Sally’s retirement and recognise her contribution to the organisation over the past nine years.
Since joining the Science Park in 2017, Sally has overseen a period of exceptional growth, leading the organisation from its early stages into a thriving community of more than 45 pioneering businesses supporting around 750 high-value jobs and generating more than £50 million in annual economic value for the region.
Alongside her role at Exeter Science Park, Sally also steps down as Chair of the UK Science Park Association (UKSPA), where she has been an advocate for science parks and innovation-led economic growth across the UK.
Sally said: “Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to work across a range of sectors, including navigation, defence, maritime, energy and science parks, each offering unique opportunities to learn, innovate and collaborate with exceptional people.
“Looking back, I am reminded that careers are not defined by job titles or achievements alone, but by the relationships we build, the knowledge we share and the positive impact we have on others. For that, I owe a debt of thanks to everyone who has been part of my journey.
Sally added: “I will be taking some time to reflect, recharge and consider what comes next. In due course, I hope to find new ways of contributing to the causes and initiatives that matter to me, while continuing the conversations and connections that have enriched my career for so many years.”
Sally officially handed over to Lindsay Lucas, who joined Exeter Science Park as Chief Executive in May. Lindsay will lead the next chapter of the Science Park’s development as it continues to expand its innovation community, attract inward investment and deliver the next phase of growth for the region.
Lindsay said: “Exeter Science Park has developed into a significant asset for regional economic growth and impact under Sally’s leadership, supporting pioneering STEMM businesses to thrive. We are incredibly grateful for the foundations she has built, overseeing the successful delivery of the Park’s first phase of development and positioning it for an exciting future. We wish Sally every success and happiness in her well-deserved retirement.”
Picture caption: Dr Sally Basker is pictured with Sir William Wakeham, the first chair of Exeter Science Park, and Dr Eulian Roberts, the current chair of the organisation.
Picture credit: Exeter Science Park
