IGHI people: Meet Nicolette Davies, Head of Operations

IGHI is home to a team of staff who are skilled and passionate about their roles. Our talented people are the reason we’re able to tackle some of the most pressing global health challenges through cutting-edge innovation.

We’re giving you the chance to get to know some of them a little better and learn about what motivates them in their roles, who inspires them and what they like to get up to outside of IGHI.

Meet Nicolette Davies, IGHI’s Head of Operations. We sat down with her to find out more about the person who helps keep IGHI running smoothly.

What does your role involve? 

My role is multifaceted. It includes several aspects from overseeing the Institute’s communications, finance and HR teams, to translating strategy and building and maintaining partnerships nationally and internationally. Since IGHI’s inception, I’ve supported the growth of the Institute and its Centres – ‘making things happen’ is a speciality of mine!

I also lead on the World Innovation Summit for Health (WISH) initiative. This involves overseeing the development of content and research forums to be presented at WISH, which takes place every few years in Qatar. At present, it’s early days in the cycle so we’re doing lots of research and planning for the forthcoming Summit. I’m looking forward to working on the policy development of key topics, engaging with a wide network of leaders in the field and familiarising myself with the in-flight entertainment on Qatar Airways!

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Each day is varied but I would say the most enjoyable part is the people. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to meet and work with some amazing people – it’s the eclectic mix that makes it most interesting.

How would your colleagues describe you in three words?  

Having asked my wonderful colleagues in the office, I have selected their nicest comments -no bribery involved! They describe me as team-oriented, light-hearted/fun and empathetic.

What’s your biggest achievement to date – personal or professional? 

Throughout my career, I’ve supported a number of global health initiatives based in low-middle income countries. In doing so, I’ve seen first-hand the challenges faced by healthcare systems operating in resource-poor settings. Playing a small part in contributing towards building capacity in key areas and seeing the difference made has been a rewarding experience.

Who inspires you? 

My mum (as cheesy as it sounds) – in facing several life challenges, she has always tackled them with a smile on her face.

If you had a superpower, what would it be? 

I would LOVE to be able to stop time – balancing work and home life with two young children can at times be challenging. I constantly battle against the clock for the school run, to catch trains, manage work deadlines, attend meetings and when possible to get up to speed on life admin. Being able to freeze time would at least allow me to have a hot cup of coffee in the morning!

What’s your guilty pleasure?

Honestly I should say watching box sets but will go for something more cultured! I’m a big fan of music concerts – from festivals (minus the mud!) to local gigs – although the next one involves taking my eight-year-old to see Little Mix…!

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