Exeter Science Park is delighted to announce that CEO Sally Basker has been named Ambassador of the Year at a major regional business awards.
Sally’s leadership and long-standing commitment to Exeter Science Park were recognised at The Business Desk’s Business of the Year Awards South West, held last night in Bristol.
The awards, supported by PwC, Michelmores and Partners&, celebrate outstanding achievement across the region’s business community. The Ambassador of the Year title is chosen by an independent judging panel and awarded to an individual ‘who has made a significant contribution to the economic growth, reputation, and development of the South West over the past 12 months’.
In awarding Sally the honour, the judges praised her for “transforming the fortunes of Exeter Science Park over the past eight years, creating a vibrant and financially sound business with a bright future.”
They stated: “The winner of our 2025 Ambassador Award is a remarkable individual whose strategic vision, collaborative approach and unwavering commitment to excellence has earned them widespread praise and recognition, not only here in the South West but nationally.
“In fact, Sally’s approach to leadership – which was recently summed up by a colleague in one word, ‘transformational’ – has earned her a key national role in her sector. In a career spanning more than three decades, she has worked in cutting-edge research and innovative technology as well as running her own consultancy working with public and private sector clients.
“Since taking up her role in 2017, Exeter Science Park has grown fivefold, contributing around £50m annually to the regional economy and supporting more than 750 jobs.”
Sally received the award at a ceremony held at the Bristol Harbour Hotel. She said: “I’m incredibly honoured to receive this award, which reflects not just my work, but the dedication and teamwork of everyone at Exeter Science Park. “Over the last eight years, we’ve worked together to cultivate an environment where innovative businesses can thrive, collaborate and grow. This recognition is a testament to the strength of our community and the shared commitment to driving economic growth and opportunity across the south west.”
