Nicola Callard

“I’m energised by purpose-led initiatives that really add value to our society. I believe in the ripple effects that can be created through the transformation and evolution of our organisations.” 

Nicola is one of PF’s stellar Senior Associates, bringing a wealth of experience to our clients both as a strategic, whole-systems thinker and as a development specialist. Nicola is driven by the desire to impact big systems for the better, through incisive and meaningful change initiatives. 

In her heart, Nicola is fascinated by human behaviour and how the individual converges with our larger collective systems, like government, the economy and broader society. She approaches her work with a dual lens: both a deep neuroscientific understanding of the mind and a highly focused strategic edge. She asks: what is the strategic need we have? And then: how do we support our people to bring it to life? She is most energised by creative blue-sky thinking, getting groups into flow and finding that moment of breakthrough. 

Prior to coming to PF, Nicola was a leader and advisor within the public sphere at the Department of Premier and Cabinet. She has extensive experience working in the policy space with a particular focus on social outcomes, health and the intersection of technology and people services, with an interest in new and emerging technologies. 

She is a published researcher in a variety of domains including social justice, co-design and partnerships, and has postgraduate qualifications from the Harvard School of Government in public leadership.  Moreover, as a registered psychologist, Nicola has been counselling individuals in their personal lives for a number of years, and she brings this depth to her practice to support our clients.  

When Nicola isn’t working, she loves to spend her time with her two children and puppy named Joy, staying active with yoga, bushwalks, and – most importantly – dancing. She will never say no to a deep conversation over some good food.