University News Last updated 14 June
Umesh Desai, Birmingham City University’s Director of Estates and Facilities, has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours list.
A former chair of the Association of University Directors of Estates (AUDE), Umesh has been recognised for his outstanding services to higher education over the past four decades.
“I am truly humbled and honoured to receive this award,” said Umesh.
“I have been working in the Higher Education sector for over 35 years working with some fantastic universities and leading wonderful estates and facilities teams who work tirelessly to improve the campuses and improve the student and staff experience.
“I share this honour with all of them, and I aim to make the same positive contributions at Birmingham City University.”
Born in Leicester, Umesh (pictured) joined Birmingham City University (BCU) at the start of May from Nottingham Trent University, where he was Director of Estates.
He had previously worked at De Montfort University for more than 30 years.
“This is wonderful recognition for Umesh’s outstanding work in higher education,” said BCU Vice-Chancellor Professor David Mba.
“We are extremely proud of his achievements and delighted he has joined BCU to play a leading role in the development of the University’s Estates 2030 Master Plan.
“This is an exciting time for BCU and the city of Birmingham – and Umesh’s drive, passion and knowledge will be instrumental to our future plans.”
Umesh is a first-generation university graduate who understands and values the importance of mixing education with real-world work experience, something he recognises BCU is very passionate about.
He also believes university can shape lives in other ways, too.
"I met my wife whilst working at university and we are celebrating our 30th wedding anniversary this year," said Umesh.
"University, for me, is not just about work, education, and career development - it is where I met my life partner, and it is why I am still so passionate about working in higher education."
The first ethnic minority Chair of AUDE - a position he held from 2022 to 2024 - Umesh is Chair of ProCon Leicestershire, which promotes and celebrates property and construction in Leicestershire.