Major new CEO role opens at Exeter Science Park with a salary of £110K to £120K

Exeter Science Park has launched a national search for a new chief executive officer, with a salary of £110,000–£120,000 plus benefits, as it looks to lead the city’s flagship innovation centre into its next phase of growth.

The announcement comes as Dr Sally Basker, who has led the Exeter Science Park since 2017, confirmed she will retire in June 2026 after nearly a decade in post. 

Her tenure has seen the park strengthen its financial position, attract major investment and support some of the South West’s most innovative science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine (STEMM) businesses. 

Located just outside Exeter’s city centre, the science park is home to more than 45 organisations working across fields including climate science, digital technology, and engineering. It serves as a key part of Exeter’s growing reputation as a regional hub for research, innovation and sustainability.

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Reflecting on her time in the role, Dr Basker said: “It has been a privilege to lead Exeter Science Park through a period of exciting growth. We’ve built a thriving community where businesses can collaborate, innovate and scale. With strong foundations in place, the time is right to hand over to a new leader to take the Park into its next chapter.”

The science park board has begun recruitment in partnership with Exeter-based firm Cathedral Appointments to identify a successor who can build on Dr Basker’s achievements and strengthen Exeter’s position as a leading centre for innovation in the South West.

Dr Eulian Roberts, Chair of Exeter Science Park, said the new chief executive would play a key role in shaping the next stage of its evolution. “The new CEO will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the Science Park, building on its successes to attract further investment, foster collaboration with regional and national partners and create an environment where science and technology businesses can thrive,” he said.

“This appointment underlines Exeter Science Park’s commitment to growth, innovation and continuity, ensuring it remains a driving force for science and technology in the South West and beyond.”

The recruitment process will begin this autumn, with first interviews expected in December and final interviews in January 2026. The appointment is due to be confirmed at the end of January, with the new CEO taking up the post in May 2026.

The science park has been credited with helping create high-value jobs, supporting start-ups, and driving collaboration between academia and industry, including links with the University of Exeter, Met Office, and local business community.