Trust welcomes two new Associate Non-Executive Directors
March 18, 2024
Amrick Singh and Atif Ali join at a pivotal moment for Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust as staff prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime move to a state-of-the-art new hospital.
Trust Chairman Sir David Nicholson commented: “Personally I’m delighted that Amrick and Atif have joined the team in this exceptional year for the organisation – where we look forward to the opening of the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital.
“In a health landscape full of challenge, we are focussed on keeping our patients in the centre of all that we do, and much as our staff represent the communities we serve so should our board. Strengthening the board with the talents of our new associates is good news for our population, as they will play a significant role in driving the positive changes to come for the organisation and all those we care for.”
Currently Director of the Nishkam Centre, Amrick Singh has a professional background which is diverse and varied. He is an innovative, forward thinking Organisational Development Consultant and Transformation Manager. As a Sikh, a Fellow of the Chartered Management Institute, Fellow at Royal Society for Arts and Fellow at the Institute of Leadership Management, he is passionate about growing and developing the capacity of those around him to excel and play active roles. His other roles include governorships at schools and several Board and Steering Group responsibilities supporting community engagement, cohesion, and social development.
On his appointment, Amrick said: “It is an honour and privilege to be appointed to the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust Board. The transformation of health and care is a phenomenal opportunity to make real change. We saw the existing disadvantage and deprivation in the region further exacerbated and exposed by the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on communities and from the challenges of Covid. I look forward to engaging with staff, the voluntary, community, faith and social enterprise sectors on furthering critical engagement and trust building to improve health outcomes.
“I am confident that by overcoming organisational challenges, aligning plans and strategies to provide support to communities and service users, through innovation and new ways of working, as a trusted go-to-institution, the Trust will continue to make essential improvements to our population’s health and wellbeing. I hope my skills, support and scrutiny will enable us collectively as a Board to tackle poor health, inequalities and improve service provision, especially with the new Midland Metropolitan University Hospital coming to fruition.”
As a seasoned Project and Programme Manager, Atif Ali has a proven track record of establishing deliverables across designated projects and navigating critical project challenges. His expertise extends to in-house resource development and strategic project management, underpinned by a Master’s in Law (LLM) from the University of Birmingham and a Bachelor’s in Law (LLB) from the University of Wolverhampton. These qualifications equip him with the legal acumen and analytical skills necessary to effectively oversee complex and diverse projects.
During his tenure at Birmingham City Council, Atif spearheaded the successful delivery of the Birmingham and Lewisham African Caribbean Health Inequalities Review (BLACHIR). This pivotal initiative positively impacted local communities by addressing social determinants of health. He also served as the Vice-Chair of the Employee’s Network of Corporate Black Workers Support Group, where he demonstrated exceptional leadership by significantly increasing membership, enhancing engagement, and optimising the group’s budget. In recognition of his outstanding service to the community, Atif was honoured with the British Empire Medal (BEM) and the British Citizens Award. Passionate about effecting positive change in the public sector, Atif is dedicated to empowering others through his adept leadership, strong negotiation skills, and effective communication strategies. His commitment to driving meaningful impact and fostering inclusivity underscores his role as a catalyst for progress within the healthcare landscape.
Atif said: “I am truly honoured to join the esteemed Trust Board at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust as an Associate Non-Executive Director. I look forward to working with fellow board members, stakeholders, and staff to drive innovation, improve patient outcomes, and uphold the Trust’s commitment to excellence in healthcare delivery. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve and continue to build a healthier, more inclusive future for our community, in line with the Trust’s strategic objectives of prioritising Patients, People, and Population.”