From student nurse to Village Manager, Ruben Kumar’s journey at Ryman reflects years of dedication, growth, and a passion for caring for others.
Today, as Village Manager at Possum Bourne Village, Ruben leads the community with the experience gained from progressing through multiple roles across the organisation.
Born and raised in Fiji, Ruben moved to New Zealand to complete his nursing qualifications, motivated by a desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.
“My first placement was in aged care at Ryman’s Malvina Major Village, getting experience in the rest home and hospital. I found it very interesting as back home there are not many care facilities as people live in their homes and get support from family members,” Ruben says.
“Seeing how Ryman team members cared for residents really made me want to be a caregiver.”
He progressed into nursing roles before stepping into a Unit Coordinator position and going on to lead as a Resident Services Manager (RSM) across several villages. As his leadership responsibilities grew, so too did his interest in the operational side of care.
“I’ve always had an interest in village operations and with the RSM role I learned at pace,” he says.
“It made me think that I could be a Village Manager. I wanted to continue with Ryman because at Ryman we never stop, we always look at ways to better care for our residents.”
In 2025, Ruben took pole position at Possum Bourne Village as Village Manager.
“The role at Possum Bourne came up and I thought ‘I’m ready’ and I am very appreciative to get this opportunity,” Ruben says.
“I’m definitely a people person so it’s a good fit for me.”
Ruben’s favourite thing about the role is working with his team and he believes strong leadership is about helping others grow. He empowers his leaders to make tough decisions and have honest conversations; while knowing he is there to support them when they need it.
“I am someone who likes to empower my leaders to reach their full potential. And this trickles down to everyone in the team,” he says.
“I always tell them we’re like swans, calm on top of the water, but underneath we’re always paddling!”
Ruben knows that he has grown immensely during his time at Ryman.
“I have become a good listener and a problem solver. Reacting in the moment is not always the best way to go forward. Having an approach that is empathetic and sympathetic is my first step.”
For Ruben the village has become his second home and being a Village Manager has fulfilled his goals: "Making a difference in people’s lives is incredible. Having the residents flourishing after moving in - nothing beats that.”
Village Manager Ruben Kumar with resident Margaret Arthur.