Jen Coates
Co-Founder & Chief Executive Officer
Jen combines professional experience in management and care with extensive lived experience of brain injury, caregiving, and mental health advocacy. As co-founder and CEO of Marshalling Brain Injuries Alliance, she leads the organisation's day-to-day operations, supports individuals and families affected by brain injury, and works to improve awareness, education, and access to support across the UK.
JDr Ejay Nsugbe PhD CEng CMath CPhys CSci SMIEEE FIMA FRSA
Clinical Director
Dr Ejay Nsugbe is an internationally recognised AI researcher and health innovator whose work focuses on advancing the understanding, diagnosis, and management of neurological and brain-related conditions. He brings expertise in artificial intelligence, health technology, and research governance, supporting MBIA's mission to improve awareness, research, and outcomes for people affected by brain injury and CTE.
Steve Sugar
Risk & Safety Director
A former professional rugby player and experienced healthcare leader, Steve brings extensive expertise in patient safety, clinical risk management, and emergency care. Living with probable CTE himself, he combines professional knowledge with lived experience to advocate for safer sport, better support systems, and greater awareness of the long-term impact of brain injury.
Zain Hirani
Finance Director
Zain brings extensive experience in finance alongside a lifelong passion for sport and athlete wellbeing. A dedicated endurance athlete, marathon runner and triathlon coach, he is committed to raising awareness of brain injuries, improving player safety, and helping ensure that future generations can enjoy sport with a greater understanding of the risks and protections available.
Lenny Woodard
Director & Ambassador
Lenny Woodard is a former dual-code Welsh international rugby player and the highest try scorer in Welsh rugby league history. Following his diagnosis of probable CTE and early-onset dementia in 2021, he has become a passionate advocate for brain injury awareness, using his lived experience to support others, promote player safety, and drive greater understanding of the long-term impact of repetitive head injuries.
Nicola Sopp
Director
With a background in leadership, customer service, sales, and marketing, Nicola brings a people-focused approach to everything she does. Her combination of business experience, empathy, and lived experience helps MBIA build strong partnerships, expand its reach, and remain grounded in compassion, understanding, and real human connection.
