The Vice Chair of West Midlands Housing Association Nehemiah UCHA, Martin Levermore MBE, has been appointed as a Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands by Her Majesty's Lord-Lieutenant John Crabtree, OBE.

In this prestigious role Martin will support the Lord-Lieutenant in a range of duties from royal visits and awards. Deputy Lieutenants also work to establish supportive links with local government, charities, the military and youth organisations.

Martin was selected for the appointment following many years of dedicated service to his local community within the housing and education sectors. Together with 15 years as the founder and Chief Executive of MDTi, a West-Midlands based company that works with the NHS to design and produce innovative medical products.

In April this year, Martin also became a Visiting Professor at Birmingham City University so has enjoyed a double celebration in less than two months.

Martin commented on receiving the honour:

"I am both honoured and delighted to be given this role. My career in housing, education and setting up a Medical Devices business in the West Midlands has provided me with many years' experience and understanding of the local area. I feel I can offer valuable support to the Lord-Lieutenant. Being a Deputy Lieutenant will also bring along some great opportunities and important responsibilities.

"In addition, having been the Vice Chair of Nehemiah UCHA a Midlands based BAME Housing Association and recently taking up the position as a Visiting Professor at Birmingham City University - I am passionate about housing and education. I have seen on a personal level just how vital housing associations who work with their tenants in providing more than just housing, but educational and employment opportunities are to social mobility and improving people's life and career prospects.

"This is a busy and exciting time for me. I look forward to serving the local and wider community by drawing on my experience and helping to make a positive difference."

Nehemiah UCHA Chief Executive Llewellyn Graham says:

"On behalf of Nehemiah UCHA and the board, I offer Martin many congratulations on this well-earned appointment.

"Martin is a passionate believer in social mobility and the impact that good health, education and housing provision has on this. Martin's new role as a Deputy Lieutenant recognises his good work throughout the West Midlands over many years and is testament to his dedication and commitment to the local community."