Prof. Dr. Ralf Speth, Chief Executive Officer, Jaguar Land Rover:
"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."