Director of Operations named in top 50 NHS Black, Asian and minority ethnic figures

Our Director of Operations, Marimouttou Coumarassamy, has been recognised by the Health Service Journal (HSJ) as one of the top 50 Black, Asian and minority ethnic figures who will exercise the most power and/or influence in the English NHS and health policy over the next 12 months.

‘Coumar’ has led mental health services through cultural change, working in several organisations across the Midlands. He has spoken many times of the issues facing NHS staff from Asian backgrounds who have dependent relatives in their home countries and the challenges that nurses experience moving to a new environment.

Speaking about being named as one of the HSJ’s Top 50 influential Black, Asian and minority ethnic figures, Coumar said:

“I am absolutely delighted to have been recognised for the work that I am incredibly passionate about and dedicated to.

“I started my career as an international nurse after leaving my home in Pondicherry, India. My experience when joining BSMHFT was an extremely welcoming one where my opinions were respected, and my voice was heard. Throughout the NHS, diversity is fundamental to ensuring that we provide patient-focused care. I have found this to be especially true at BSMHFT as we have one of the most diverse cities in the UK.

“My role as Chair and founder of the British Indian Nurses Association (BINA) also focuses on helping to pave the way for many more enthusiastic Indian nurses to join the incredible institution that is the NHS.”

As well as being a highly regarded registered mental health nurse, Coumar also has a Masters in Forensic Mental Health Care, a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) for healthcare management. More recently, he also completed the Nye Bevan Executive Leadership Programme at the NHS Leadership Academy.