Technology innovator and entrepreneur Yiannis Maos MBE has been awarded an honorary doctorate in business administration by Aston University.
The honour comes in the same week that a portrait of Maos (see below) was unveiled, celebrating his work in transforming the West Midlands into a thriving hub for innovation, talent and inclusive growth.
His efforts are widely recognised for helping the region become the UK’s fastest-growing digital economy, now worth over £16bn.
A champion of the region’s tech sector, Maos is best known as the founder of TechWM, the not-for-profit organisation behind major initiatives that have propelled the West Midlands onto the global tech stage. His leadership has directly influenced skills development, investment attraction, and startup growth across the region.
This year also saw Maos named West Midlands Technology Leader of the Year at a prestigious industry awards ceremony, cementing his reputation as a driving force for change and impact.
“It’s an incredible honour to be recognised by Aston University, an institution I’ve long admired for its commitment to innovation, diversity and social mobility,” he said. “This week has been deeply humbling and I share this recognition with the many amazing people I’ve worked with over the years.”
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Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Professor Damien Foster, Dean of School of Computer Science and Digital Technologies at Aston University, said: “Yiannis is a visionary leader who has shaped the technological landscape of both the West Midlands and the United Kingdom.
“Over two decades, he has been a tireless advocate for innovation, inclusion and regional growth. It is therefore with great pride that we have awarded Yiannis the award of honorary doctor of business administration.”
The portrait was unveiled on Saturday at the Centrala Gallery in Digbeth alongside other notable figures who have made a lasting impact on the region.
Maos was awarded an MBE in 2022 for services to the technology sector and the community in the West Midlands.