De Montfort University’s Business School is celebrating after being awarded second place at the worldwide PIEoneer Awards, earning a Highly Commended distinction in the Business School of the Year category.
Shortlisted alongside business schools from across the world, we finished as runner-up to UC Business School in New Zealand, which claimed the top award at a ceremony held in London. This recognition places us firmly on the global stage, highlighting our growing reputation for innovation and inclusivity.
In its award entry, the Business School team showcased a range of new ideas designed to make the student experience more welcoming and inclusive, particularly for international students joining the DMU community.
Professor Leanne de Main, our Pro-Vice Chancellor and Dean of the Faculty of Business and Law at De Montfort University said the commendation reflected the collective efforts of staff across the school: “To be highly commended is recognition of the dedication of our community and our ongoing commitment to shaping future global leaders through teaching excellence, student support and innovation.”
Highly Commended distinction in the Business School of the Year category
The PIEoneer Awards, organised by international education network PIE, celebrate achievement and innovation across the global education sector. With more than 3,500 international students from over 100 countries studying at our Business School each year, and a further 6,000 students enrolled through DMU’s international partners and overseas campuses, creating a welcoming environment is a key priority.
To support this diverse student body, the Business School team has introduced a series of student-led initiatives to enhance the induction experience. Working closely with students, they developed an International Student Guide to Leicester, offering practical advice on starting life in the UK alongside insights into the city’s shopping, culture and rich history.
This was complemented by the launch of an International Student Cookbook, featuring favourite dishes from business students at DMU. Students from Sri Lanka, Morocco, Bangladesh and China shared recipes from their home countries, encouraging others to try something new, while raising hundreds of pounds for the United Nations World Food Programme through publication and sales of the book.
The award entry also highlighted BizSpark, a challenge competition that brings businesses and students together to tackle real-world business problems. The initiative offers immersive industry engagement, mentoring and hands-on experience, helping students build commercial awareness and professional networks before they graduate.
The international recognition reflects our commitment to innovation, inclusion and preparing students for success in a global business environment.