Humans of Warwick - Hasina Ismail

Hasina Ismail

PA & Team Administrator

“Marriage brought me to Coventry and my very first job at the University.”

“I grew up in South London, my family and a lot of friends are still there. I was straight out of college and my job interview at WMG was my very first one. Working for Lord Bhattacharyya, then Professor Bhattacharyya, was my first job. A job that I loved and did for 26 years.

Working with Lord Bhattacharyya had its challenges. He was very demanding, but also a visionary and four steps ahead of everyone else. Being part of his gate keeping team, if you saw my name ringing on your phone, you’d answer it, was an absolute privilege. Discretion, total confidentiality and diplomacy was a vital part of the job.

He left behind an extraordinary legacy, and the NAIC building stands as a lasting testament to his vision and impact. When the road and the building were named in his honour, he was visibly moved and there was a tear in his eye. Sadly, he didn’t live to see the building officially opened by Prince Charles, now His Majesty the King. When he was awarded his peerage, he made a point of bringing with him the people who had supported him throughout his journey. Chefs, estates staff, technicians everyone who played a role. We all went down for afternoon tea at the House of Commons, it was a day I will never forget.

I stayed on the journey with him right until the day he passed. I met people from academia, industry and governments from around the world and had the chance to do and see some amazing things. A big highlight was when the President of India came, I served him a Masala Dosa that we’d specially made for him. There are so many stories, some you would not believe to be true, and some still confidential!

More recently, I had the privilege of working in the Vice Chancellor’s office. It was a chance for a new beginning. This continued to be an exciting experience and an opportunity to engage with the wider Warwick community. There is a huge university out there and so much still to learn. I’m currently on secondment in the Regional Partnerships Team. When the opportunity came up, I grabbed the chance to experience what it was like to work outside the Executive office. I’m not disappointed, no two days are the same. This is the beauty of the university it allows you the opportunity to move and not stand still. Even after all these years I’m always learning.

Warwick has become my story. It’s given me the opportunity to grow and become who I am today. I grew up here, became part of the community, and made it my home with my husband and my three children. I love being part of it.”