Kumar Bhattacharyya was one of the most inspirational and committed individuals I have ever had the good fortune to meet.
The energy with which he helped drive innovation and excellence in UK manufacturing, securing thousands of skilled jobs for the people of Coventry and the West Midlands in the process, stands as proud testament to the impact he had on our country.
He was a great pioneer and advocate of universities working more closely with industry and in partnership with government, and he will be a deep and sad loss for those at the Warwick Manufacturing Group and University.
My thoughts and prayers are with Bridie and his family as well as his many friends.