Warwick Manufacturing Group (WMG) has unveiled a new portrait honouring its founder, Professor Lord Bhattacharyya, recognising his contribution to UK manufacturing and the development of industry-academia collaboration.
The portrait was unveiled at the University of Warwick on 1 October in an event attended by Bhattacharyya’s family, university leaders, industry figures and international partners.
Bhattacharyya founded WMG in 1980 following discussions with then University of Warwick Vice-Chancellor Lord Jack Butterworth. The organisation was established to bring manufacturing education, research and industry closer together.
During his career, Bhattacharyya played a prominent role in supporting industrial regeneration and advanced manufacturing in the West Midlands, while also developing international partnerships, particularly with India and China.
His relationships with Indian industrial groups including Tata and TVS Motor Company helped establish long-term collaborations with WMG. These contributed to initiatives including the National Automotive Innovation Centre (NAIC), which has delivered more than 100 research projects.
WMG says 750 degree apprentices have been trained at Jaguar Land Rover through the partnership, while more than 1,200 Warwick alumni now work for Tata Group companies worldwide.
Bhattacharyya’s contribution to manufacturing was recognised internationally, including through India’s Padma Bhushan and China’s Great Wall Friendship Award and Chinese Government Friendship Award.
The new portrait was commissioned by the University of Warwick and created by artist Mark Roscoe. It will be displayed at the NAIC in the Lord Bhattacharyya Building, which was named in his honour.
Professor Stuart Croft, Vice-Chancellor and President of the University of Warwick, described Bhattacharyya as a “visionary leader” whose influence extended beyond Warwick through his work in manufacturing, innovation and skills development.
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