Creative Strategist & CEO of Figure 8 Thinking LLC, Author of ‘The Creativity Leap’, Founding Director of the Strategic Design MBA at Thomas Jefferson University & Named One of the Top 50 Keynote Speakers in the World
Natalie Nixon’s Biography:
Natalie is a globally recognised creativity strategist, innovation expert and award-winning author whose work helps organisations thrive in an era of constant change. As the author of ‘The Creativity Leap’, she has become one of the leading voices on creativity, the future of work and business innovation. Named among the world’s Top 50 Keynote Speakers, Natalie is renowned for translating complex ideas into practical strategies that drive growth, adaptability and human-centred leadership. Her engaging presentations draw upon years of research and consulting experience, making her a highly sought-after speaker for organisations looking to unlock innovation and navigate disruption.
Natalie’s academic and professional journey combines rigorous scholarship with real-world business expertise. She earned a PhD from the University of Westminster and went on to establish herself as a leading authority on strategic design and creativity. In 2013, she became the Founding Director of the Strategic Design MBA at Thomas Jefferson University, helping shape future innovators and business leaders. Building upon this foundation, she launched Figure 8 Thinking LLC in 2017, where she serves as Creative Strategist and CEO, advising organisations on how to foster creativity and future-ready cultures. Her expertise has also led to roles as an Advisor and Contributing Writer for the Forbes Coaches Council.
Throughout her career, Natalie has received widespread recognition for her contributions to innovation and thought leadership. She was named one of the 40 Top Women Speakers of 2020 by Real Leaders and became a World-Changing Ideas Honouree in 2021. More recently, she was selected for the Thinkers50 Radar Class of 2024, shortlisted for the 2025 Thinkers50 Talent Award and honoured with the 2024 NAWBO Architecture of Innovation Award. Her insights have been featured in Forbes, Fast Company and Inc., further cementing her reputation as a leading business thinker.
Beyond her consulting and academic achievements, Natalie is recognised for her ability to inspire audiences to embrace curiosity, creativity and strategic thinking. Through keynote presentations, executive workshops and educational programmes, she equips leaders with the tools needed to navigate uncertainty, foster innovation and build more resilient organisations. Her unique blend of academic rigour, business acumen and creative insight makes her an invaluable voice in conversations about the future of work.
Why Hire Natalie Nixon?
Natalie is hired as a speaker for her ability to transform abstract concepts around creativity and innovation into actionable strategies that organisations can implement immediately. Drawing on her extensive research and leadership experience, she delivers thought-provoking keynotes that challenge conventional thinking and inspire meaningful change. Her acclaimed TEDx talks, ‘7 Rules for Improvising at Work’ and ‘The Nudge Imperative’, showcase her engaging speaking style and practical insights. Audiences leave with a deeper understanding of how creativity can drive business growth, leadership effectiveness and long-term organisational success.
Natalie Nixon’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Natalie Nixon’s remarkable career:
- 2025 – Shortlisted for the Thinkers50 Talent Award, recognising emerging global management thinkers.
- 2024 – Received NAWBO’s Architecture of Innovation Award for her impact on innovation and business transformation.
- 2022 – Named one of Real Leaders’ Top 50 Keynote Speakers in the World and became a LinkedIn Learning Instructor.
- 2021 – Honoured as a World-Changing Ideas Honouree for her contributions to innovation and creativity.
- 2020 – Published the bestselling book ‘The Creativity Leap’.
- 2020 – Appointed Advisor and Contributing Writer for the Forbes Coaches Council.
- 2020 – Named one of the 40 Top Women Speakers by Real Leaders.
- 2017 – Founded Figure 8 Thinking LLC and became its Creative Strategist and CEO.
- 2013 – Established and became the Founding Director of the Strategic Design MBA programme at Thomas Jefferson University.
Videos
Natalie Nixon’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Natalie delivered one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking keynote presentations we have ever hosted. Her ability to combine creativity, innovation and practical business strategy captivated our audience from start to finish. Rather than simply discussing the future of work, Natalie provided actionable insights that our team could immediately apply within their own roles. Her engaging delivery, deep expertise and unique perspective sparked meaningful conversations long after the event had ended. We would highly recommend Natalie to any organisation looking to inspire fresh thinking, unlock innovation and drive lasting impact.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Natalie Nixon’s Official Keynote Topics:
- Foresight & the Future of Work
- Applied Creativity & Leadership
- Innovation & Navigating Uncertainty
How Much Does Natalie Nixon Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Natalie Nixon?
Natalie Nixon’s speaking fees typically reflect her exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.