PROFESSOR Lord Bhattacharyya – a giant of Coventry and Warwickshire’s post-industrial and academic landscape – has passed away after a short illness.
The chairman of WMG at the University of Warwick, passed away today (Friday March 1), after a short illness, the university has announced.
“His passing was peaceful and he was with his family, who are in our thoughts and prayers”, it added.
For decades he has been a leading figure regionally, nationally and internationally in developing academic research in advanced technology and links with industry.
He was an influential figure in shaping local and national policy, as was courted by government ministers, local MPs and councillors alike,
Sir David Normington, Chair of Council and Pro-Chancellor of University of Warwick said: “Long before I joined the University of Warwick Council, I knew of Professor Lord Bhattacharyya as an adviser to successive Prime Ministers and Secretaries of State and a tireless advocate for UK manufacturing industry. Then, as Chair of Council I had the great good fortune to see close up his extraordinary commitment to University of Warwick, to Coventry and the West Midlands and to UK plc.
“He was a force of nature. He pushed at boundaries, he changed lives, he created jobs, and he set the standard for how universities should work with industry. Most of all, for so many of us, he was also a kind and generous friend. We shall miss him terribly but here at Warwick he will remain our inspiration for many years to come.
“We send our love and deep condolences to Bridie and his family.”
Warwick’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Stuart Croft said: “Professor Lord Bhattacharyya served for four decades at Warwick founding and leading WMG. However his service goes far beyond this University. The achievements of WMG, particularly his own wisdom, passion, and advocacy of the importance of manufacturing, technology, research teaching, and training has helped guide regional, national and international leaders, business figures and policy makers. He has helped preserve and create jobs and transform companies, economies, and individual lives, above all in our region. We mourn the passing of a unique man but we also celebrate all that he has achieved and are thankful that those achievements will have a massive impact for years to come.”
The university’s statement adds: “The University will post a longer tribute to his life and achievements in the coming days. Professor Lord Bhattacharyya’s life touched so many people who we know will want to show their respects and commemorate his life and achievements. We therefore envisage that there will be a memorial event in due course and we publish the arrangements when they are available.
“It was Professor Lord Bhattacharyya’s wish that the University ask Professor David Mullins to become the Acting Head of WMG and he has accepted that role.” Professor Mullins said: “It has been a great honour and privilege to have worked so closely with Professor Lord Bhattacharyya for over 20 years. At this sad time, we are all focused on growing the amazing organisation for research, education and impact that he created for national and international benefit.”
Jaguar Land Rover released the following statement on its website..
It is with great sadness that we have been informed of the passing of Professor Lord Bhattacharyya.
Lord Bhattacharyya was a remarkable and inspirational man who played a significant role in U.K. manufacturing and engineering over the past 50 years.
He became Britain’s first Professor of Manufacturing and founded the Warwick Manufacturing Group in the 1980s which now has a global reputation for its collaborative approach by combining educational excellence with practical relevance to industry. Through his extensive international contacts and his drive towards an exciting and compelling vision of the future, he was instrumental in brokering major partnerships in U.K. manufacturing including Tata’s investment in Jaguar Land Rover and the recent ground breaking creation and investment in the National Automotive Innovation Centre – fittingly located in the Lord Bhattacharyya Building at the University of Warwick.
Lord Bhattacharyya was regarded by leaders in politics, academia and industry as a true pioneer and a passionate advocate for engineering innovation. He received many international honours and awards including the highest honours China presents to foreigners.
He was an exceptional mentor to many people at Jaguar Land Rover and will be greatly missed. Through his clear vision, strong sense of purpose and his warm charismatic personality, he energised people of all ages and backgrounds and created momentum for creativity and positive change.
Professor Lord Bhattacharyya’s legacy will be exceptional, wide reaching and long lasting.
Our condolences go to his family and friends at this very sad time.
