Exeter Science Park pays tribute to outgoing Chair Nick Ames
Exeter Science Park has paid tribute to its outgoing Chair of the Board, Nick Ames, who has stepped down from his role following the successful completion of his five-year tenure.
Nick has overseen a significant period of transformation and growth for the Science Park, playing an important role in shaping the organisation’s strategic direction and laying the foundations for its next phase of development. His leadership has been instrumental in helping the Science Park strengthen its reputation as a hub for innovation, collaboration and high-growth STEMM (science, technology, engineering, maths and medicine) businesses across the South West.
During his time as Chair, Nick has supported the Chief Executive and team in delivering a strategy designed to expand the Park’s impact and unlock further economic growth and opportunity for the region. He led the board through the covid pandemic, practical completion of the Ada Lovelace and George Parker Bidder buildings, the development of the new net zero voco Zeal hotel development and financial restructuring.
The organisation is now entering the next phase of its growth which will see it seeking substantial investment of £150-£200million to realise its vision. It is committed to competing the development by the late 2030s, with the ambition to support up to 3,500 jobs and generate £350 million in annual turnover.
Dr Sally Basker, Chief Executive of Exeter Science Park, said: “Nick has brought intelligence, clarity and deep commercial insight to the boardroom and has been a hugely valued figurehead for the Science Park over the last five years. His belief in the role that innovation and entrepreneurship can play in driving positive change has helped shape a clear and ambitious path forward. On behalf of the board and team, I’d like to thank Nick for his tireless support and wish him all the very best.”
Nick, who is CEO of SC Group, said: “It has been a privilege to serve as Chair of Exeter Science Park during such an important period. I’m immensely proud of what we’ve achieved together and I leave knowing that the organisation is in a strong position to deliver its next phase of growth. The Science Park plays a vital role in shaping the region’s future economy and supporting brilliant businesses doing world-class work. I look forward to seeing it continue to thrive.”
Nick will be succeeded by Dr Eulian Roberts, whose previous roles include Chief Executive of Stirling University Innovation Park and Managing Director of Coventry University Enterprises. He also led European consulting projects for governments and research institutions at ANGLE Technology. Internationally, he was the founding Managing Director of Qatar Science & Technology Park and led Dhahran Techno Valley in Saudi Arabia. More recently, he served as Chief Executive of Imperial College ThinkSpace.
Exeter Science Park was established 10 years ago when the Science Park Centre building was completed. Today it is home to 45 organisations, supporting more than 750 jobs and generating over £50 million in GVA annually.
www.exetersciencepark.co.uk
