University News Last updated 27 January 2009
Birmingham City University is delighted to announce that it will be conferring the honorary award of Doctor of the University upon Mr Paul Bassi, Chairman of Bond Wolfe and Bigwood chartered surveyors, in recognition of his outstanding business achievements.
Paul Bassi's first step towards his commercial career began with a programme of study at a local business college, which ultimately led him to become a business leader. As Chairman of two businesses, which combined are listed in the top 50 UK estate agencies, Paul is also Chief Executive of Real Estate Investors Plc, where he is the largest shareholder.
Born in Birmingham and of Sikh Asian origin, Paul is supportive of many of the multi-cultural organisations throughout the West Midlands.
Paul was formerly Vice-President of Sandwell & Dudley Chamber of Commerce and was a member of the consultation process that created the Black Country Chamber of Commerce. In 2007 he accepted the Vice Presidency at Birmingham Chamber of Commerce and is the first Asian President of the largest Chamber of Commerce in the Country.
As a former Price Waterhouse Coopers Entrepreneur of the Year and the youngest ever recipient of LloydsTSB Life-Time Achievement Award, Paul is keen to see young people in business get ahead and encourages budding entrepreneurs to think without limitations and to always have a strategy.
In addition to his commercial interests, Paul is an active supporter of a number of charitable and community organisations. His contribution to the Midlands region was recognised with his appointment, by Buckingham Palace, as High Sheriff for the West Midlands for 2009 and, most recently, with his appointment as Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands.
Paul will be given his Honorary Doctorate at an Awards Congregation ceremony in Symphony Hall which will celebrate the work and achievements of students graduating from the Divisions of Design & Process Innovation and Electronics, Communications & Software within the Technology Innovation Centre, and from the School of Property, Construction and Planning. This will take place at 10.30am on Thursday 29 January 2009.
Notes to editors
Photographic opportunities can be arranged on request. Please contact Karen Blanchette on 0121 331 6739 or email karen.blanchette.ac.uk.