NHS workforce leaders named among health service’s most influential figures

Senior workforce and equality leaders have been recognised in the Health Service Journal’s annual list of the 75 most influential Black, Asian and minority ethnic people working in healthcare.

This year’s list includes more chief people officers than previously, reflecting the growing prominence of workforce leadership across the NHS. NHS Employers said those selected had made significant contributions to organisational culture, staff experience and inclusion.

Among those recognised were Terry Roberts, chief people officer at Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust; Cheryl Samuels, director of people and culture at Evelina London; and Meera Nair, chief people officer at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.

Marcus Riddell, chief people officer at Royal Papworth Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, was also highlighted as one of the list’s rising stars. Other people recognised included Helga Pile, Unison’s head of health, and Lord Victor Adebowale, chair of the NHS Alliance and NHS Employers.

Rebecca Achieng Ajulu-Bushell, chief executive of the 10,000 Interns Foundation, was acknowledged for helping to expand access to paid internships for Black young people beginning their careers.

Ben Morrin, chief executive of NHS Employers and a member of the judging panel, welcomed the stronger representation of senior workforce professionals. The organisation said the recognition demonstrated the important role people leaders play in creating fairer workplaces and supporting the NHS workforce through continued pressure and change.

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