Exeter Science Park names new Chief Executive to lead next phase of growth

Exeter Science Park has appointed a new chief executive to steer the organisation through its next major phase of growth and expansion.

Lindsay Lucas will take up the key regional leadership role in May, bringing with her more than 18 years’ experience in the technology and innovation sector. 

She joins the Science Park from digital social enterprise Cosmic, where she has served as Head of Training and Consultancy and Deputy CEO.

Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for Exeter Science Park, which has established itself as a central driver of the region’s high-tech economy.

The Exeter Science Park is recognised as a hub for science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine (STEMM) businesses and is regarded as the South West’s leading centre of activity for high-growth innovation.

It provides state-of-the-art laboratories and offices for cutting-edge companies, alongside specialist business support through SETsquared Exeter – the University of Exeter’s enterprise partnership. 

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Tenants and start-ups based at the Park also benefit from access to a powerful network of partners, investors and academic institutions.

Currently supporting around 750 jobs and generating more than £50 million in Gross Value Added (GVA) annually, Exeter Science Park is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the region’s future economy.

The organisation celebrated its 10th anniversary last year and completed the first phase of its development. It is now preparing for significant long-term expansion, with plans to grow towards a 3,500-job campus by the late 2030s.

Ms Lucas will succeed current Chief Executive Dr Sally Basker, who has led the Science Park since 2017 and will retire later this year following a planned handover.

As CEO, Ms Lucas will work closely with the Board of Directors to manage the next stage of development, attract new investment and continue building Exeter’s reputation as a centre for innovation.

Dr Eulian Roberts, Chair of the Exeter Science Park Board, welcomed the appointment.

“We are delighted to welcome Lindsay to lead the organisation as we continue the development of the Park,” he said.

“Her appointment supports our mission to help science and technology businesses of all sizes start, scale and succeed – driving high-value jobs, productivity and economic growth for the region.

“Lindsay brings strategic experience delivering digital transformation, innovation and commercial growth. Her record of strengthening commercial performance and securing partnership-led investment will be key to the continued growth and impact of Exeter Science Park.”

Ms Lucas said she was excited to be taking on the role at such a crucial moment.

“This is an exciting time to be joining Exeter Science Park as it builds on a decade of strong foundations and looks ahead to significant expansion, attracting new investment into the region,” she said.

“I’m delighted to be joining the team and to help shape a thriving, sustainable campus that reflects the South West’s STEMM talent, ambition and spirit.

“I’m looking forward to working with our partners to support our tenants, strengthen our innovation ecosystem and contribute to the region’s long-term prosperity.”

Her arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter for the Science Park as it looks to cement its position as one of the UK’s most important regional centres for research, innovation and high-skilled employment.