A Honiton-based business leader has visited 10 Downing Street this week, to meet with Chancellor of the Exchequer Jeremy Hunt.

Julie Hawker MBE, joint CEO of Cosmic, attended a Local Business Champions Reception’ hosted by the Chancellor of the Exchequer last Wednesday, (May 24).

Julie Hawker MBE, who is also vice chair of the Devon Air Ambulance Trust, was invited in her capacity as joint CEO of Cosmic UK. Julie was recognised in the 2023 New Year Honours List for her service to the economy through 25 years at the company.

Cosmic UK began in the market town of Ottery St Mary in 1996 and is now a leading digital consultation business, now based at the East Devon Business Centre in Honiton.

Jeremy Hunt MP hosted the event to celebrate business leaders from across the country who have made a real difference to their local communities and deserve recognition.

The East Devon MP visited their offices earlier this year to discuss their success as a local business and social enterprise, providing services to thousands of people across the county and beyond.

The event was also attended by Member of Parliament for East Devon, Simon Jupp.

Simon Jupp, MP for East Devon, said: “Cosmic has gone from strength to strength since its roots in Ottery St Mary in 1996, and that’s at no surprise with someone as inspiring as Julie at the wheel. It was a real pleasure to join her at 10 Downing Street. Cosmic is an example of how East Devon is increasingly an exciting hub of economic activity and innovation.”

Julie Hawker, joint CEO of Cosmic UK, said: “It was a privilege to attend the reception and to experience No.10 in this way, with so many other inspiring business champions and their respective MPs celebrating the value of local business in this way. Cosmic has high ambitions for the future delivery of our digital skills and services and so this level of recognition provides a welcome boost and motivation for the whole team.”