Imaan Healthcare is a member of the Association of Independent Multiple Pharmacies. Superintendent Pharmacist Saghir Ahmed, talks about how they value equality and diversity:
Imaan Healthcare recruits more than 70 pre-registration pharmacists annually through the Oriel recruiting platform, and we have successfully promoted pharmacists to teacher practitioner roles at different universities. It is worth noting that pharmacy, as an undergraduate course, attracts a higher proportion of students from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds compared to other courses. Therefore, having BAME teacher practitioners and lecturers can serve as a source of inspiration for students. We recognise the importance of having role models in one’s life, and the presence of individuals with similar backgrounds serves as a powerful demonstration of the potential for personal growth and excellence.
The composition of the Imaan Healthcare board of directors is characterised by its diversity, comprising individuals from various faiths and ethnic backgrounds. Our senior and middle management tiers also encompass a wide spectrum of professionals from diverse backgrounds. Our management positions comprise individuals of various genders, ethnicities, and qualifications, including pharmacy technicians who have progressed to the role of area managers. We promote individuals based on merit, regardless of their educational background, thereby challenging existing barriers and prejudices.
We have implemented secondment positions to trial new roles and evaluate individual’s suitability for long-term prospects. We have established six part-time business development manager positions for our pharmacies, staffed by pharmacists. We offered all colleagues the opportunity to express their interest in these roles, followed by an interview process. The selection of the six individuals was based on their demonstrated excellence within the organization, their professional growth in the field of pharmacy, as well as their expressed commitment to contributing to the seconded role.
Our primary focus remains on assessing individuals based on their character and ability when it comes to recruiting and promoting staff.
