M.E. and L&D: Exclusive interview with trailblazing educational leader Solveig Nicklos
'M.E. and L&D'. Giving you a glimpse into amazing people's pasts, to inspire your future.
In this edition of M.E. and L&D, we are delighted to learn more about Solveig Nicklos. Solveig Nicklos is a distinguished educational leader and executive based in the United Arab Emirates. With over 25+ years of experience, she has made significant contributions to the fields of education and organizational development. Currently, she serves as the Senior Advisor to the VP (CEO), Interim Chief Administration and Finance Officer at Zayed University, where she focuses on enhancing learning paradigms through technology and future skills. Before her role at Zayed University, Nicklos held prominent positions at various prestigious institutions. She was the Director/CEO of the Bahrain Institute of Banking and Finance (BIBF) and served as the Asia Regional Director for the Richard Ivey School of Business in Hong Kong. Additionally, she has experience as the COO of the Qatar Finance & Business Academy and has held key roles at Columbia Business School and the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton Executive Education. Her work has been instrumental in shaping educational initiatives across the Middle East and beyond, thus we are so very grateful to have here in this edition of M.E. and L&D.
Let's start at the beginning. What was your very first job, and how did it shape your initial thoughts about your career?
Besides babysitting, my first real jobs were a series of roles I created for myself. I wanted more income and control, so I put up flyers offering various services. Essentially, I was running my own small business, managing multiple roles as a one-person operation. I helped with parties as a sub-caterer, assisted at a daycare, taught swimming lessons, and took on any other tasks needed by the families in my neighborhood.
This experience was incredibly enjoyable and eye-opening. It showed me that I could have more control over my own life and work. While I also had part-time jobs at video stores and worked as a lifeguard, these entrepreneurial endeavors taught me that non-traditional paths can be just as fulfilling and offer significant autonomy. This early exposure to diverse opportunities and the freedom to shape my own work experience greatly influenced my career philosophy. Instead of following a strictly planned career path, I remained open to new opportunities and followed them as they arose, which has shaped the trajectory of my career.
Can you share a defining moment or turning point in your life that steered you towards your current career path?
Two defining moments shaped my career path. The first occurred right after I completed my undergraduate degree. I attended a job fair, where most of the opportunities were for very basic, entry-level positions. While these roles were perfectly valid, I found them uninspiring and could not imagine myself being excited about any of them. That is, until I came across a booth offering a unique opportunity to live in Europe for a year. This program was akin to a student exchange but for recent graduates, and it included visas for England and Ireland—perfect for someone who only spoke English. I was thrilled by the prospect and eagerly seized the chance.
During that year, I took on various office jobs in London and Dublin, and it was an incredible experience that broadened my horizons. It taught me that there are alternative paths beyond conventional expectations and that taking risks can lead to fulfilling opportunities. This realization has guided my career choices ever since.
The second pivotal moment came after I returned to the United States. I initially took a job in pool chemical sales, which I didn't find fulfilling. Deciding to pursue further education, I enrolled in an MBA program in 1999, just before the tech bubble burst. By the time I graduated in 2001, job fairs were still offering little that intrigued me. However, I found a booth for the Peace Corps, which seemed fascinating. I applied and ended up joining, embracing the opportunity to look at things differently. This openness to unconventional opportunities has been a guiding principle throughout my career. I highly recommend attending job fairs but also encourage exploring options beyond what seems immediately available if they don't spark your interest.
Who were some of the key mentors or figures that inspired and guided you during the early stages of your career?
I didn’t have a specific mentor early in my career, but there was one pivotal moment that left a lasting impact on me. While working in London after my undergraduate degree, I ended up supporting the CEO’s assistant. I admired the CEO greatly—he was charismatic, led with vision, and seemed to embody everything I aspired to be. When someone asked me about my career goals, I mentioned that I wanted to become a CEO like him.
Unfortunately, another woman at the office dismissed my ambition, suggesting that I was overreaching. Instead of letting this dampen my aspirations, I took it as a lesson in how to protect and communicate my goals. I realized that not everyone needs to share or support your dreams; sometimes, it’s better to keep them to yourself unless you find someone who is supportive and aligns with your vision.
This experience taught me the importance of safeguarding my aspirations and only sharing them with those who can offer genuine encouragement. It was a transformative moment that shaped how I approach my career and communicate my goals.
What were some of the biggest challenges or obstacles you faced when starting out, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced early in my career was choosing unconventional paths that others found risky or unusual. For example, I decided to go abroad twice instead of taking a traditional job, which meant leaving behind relationships, family, and familiar surroundings. These choices were unconventional and daunting, especially for those who were more accustomed to a traditional career trajectory.
The challenge was compounded by the judgments and lack of understanding from those around me. Many people struggled to see beyond their own limited experiences and couldn't understand why I would choose such a different path. That is why representation matters, people who take risks and pursue unconventional routes because they provide valuable images and proof that such paths are possible.
Fortunately, I have a naturally optimistic mindset and a belief that things will work out, which made it easier for me to take these risks. I realize, though, that this perspective might not be shared by everyone. For those whose families are more controlling or critical, making such decisions can be much more challenging. While I didn’t view these hurdles as major obstacles, I understand that they could be significant for others facing similar circumstances.
What’s been one accomplishment you are most proud of? and what's one thing you want to accomplish in the future?
I’m most proud of how I’ve embraced the unfolding of my life and career, remaining open to opportunities and pursuing paths that might not always have been the safest or most conventional. This willingness to explore and take risks has led to fulfilling experiences and achievements.
Looking ahead, I’m eager to pivot my career towards creating something impactful. I’m passionate about building initiatives that make a difference and are durable. Specifically, I’d like to develop a unique leadership training course that helps people understand and harness their inner voice early in their careers. While many learn operational skills through experience, I believe there’s a need for guidance in personal development and self-discovery. My goal is to create a program that addresses this gap and helps individuals align with their true potential.
Looking back, is there any advice you would give to your younger self when you were just starting out in your career?
Be even more daring. Align your inner self/passion and the rest will fall into place. Don’t do things for the money, that will follow naturally. Trust your instincts.
Want to know more? Connect with Solveig Nicklos on LinkedIn to explore their unique insights further and stay up-to-date with all their latest initiatives.