New chair appointed to lead Exeter Science Park into next phase of growth
Exeter Science Park has appointed Dr Eulian Roberts as Chair of its Board of Directors, as the organisation enters a pivotal new chapter in its strategic development. Dr Roberts succeeds Nick Ames, who has completed a five-year term marked by significant progress and resilience.
Dr Roberts brings more than 30 years of international leadership experience spanning the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. His diverse background includes senior executive roles in science parks, academia, consultancy, and economic development. He holds a BSc and PhD from Imperial College London, alongside an MBA, and began his career in Cambridge delivering a commercially funded research project.
His 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.
Dr Roberts said: “I am delighted to join Exeter Science Park at such a pivotal time in its development. This role aligns perfectly with my experience, and I look forward to working closely with the board, shareholders, and executive team to support the Park’s next stage of sustainable growth. I aim to continue building on the strong foundations laid by Nick Ames and his predecessors to ensure we capitalise on the Park’s role in delivering high-value jobs, innovation, and economic impact for the South West.”
Nick Ames, Chief Executive of the SG Group and outgoing Chair, has served as chair of Exeter Science Park since April 2020. During this period, he led the board through the covid pandemic, practical completion of the Ada Lovelace and George Parker Bidder buildings, the development of the net zero voco Zeal hotel development and financial restructuring.
Nick said: “Eulian stood out in a highly competitive field. His experience will be invaluable as the Park continues to evolve. It has been a privilege to work alongside Sally, the board, and our shareholders to help position Exeter Science Park as a catalyst for regional growth and innovation.”
Dr Sally Basker, Chief Executive of Exeter Science Park, added: “We are incredibly grateful to Nick for his commitment and leadership, particularly through the challenges of the pandemic and during a significant phase of expansion. I look forward to working with Eulian as we continue to deliver on our ambitious vision for the Park and the region.”
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. With its latest developments including the UK’s first net-zero carbon hotel under the voco Zeal brand, the Park is poised for further growth. The board and shareholders are committed to completing the development by the late 2030s, with the ambition to support up to 3,500 jobs and generate £350 million in annual turnover.
