Nicola Hodson is an inspirational, dynamic leader with over three decades of experience at the forefront of business and technology. With a passion for transforming business, humanity and sustainability, Nicola is a renowned speaker, known for inspiring high-performing teams. Currently serving as the Chair of IBM for the UK and Ireland, her in-depth knowledge of business operations, combined with her extensive real-world experience, enables her to provide audiences with valuable insights and actionable strategies.
After gaining a PhD in Materials Engineering from the University of Liverpool, followed by an MBA from Lancaster University, Nicola began her career at BNFL. There, she led the business implementation of a comprehensive business turnaround, culture change and transformation programme as the Lead Business Transformation Manager. This was followed by key transformational roles at Ernst & Young and CSC. Nicola’s transition into technology began in 2003 when she joined Siemens Business and advanced from a role as a Sales and Marketing Director to a General Manager, where she utilised her leadership skills.
In 2008, Nicola began her 15-year tenure at Microsoft as a General Manager. With her excellent forward-thinking, she quickly advanced to become the Chief Operating Officer, followed by the Vice President of Global Sales within the business. In addition, Nicola has served as an influential figurehead on boards including TechUK, Ofgem and the UK Council for Child Internet Safety, along with acting as a Non-Executive Director at Drax Group and Beazley plc.
Nicola’s leading contributions have been recognised across the globe, with her being named on Computer Weekly’s list of the 50 Most Influential People in UK Technology and in CRN’s 2024 A-List. Combining her expertise across sectors, she drives results whilst ensuring that sustainability and inclusion remain at the forefront of her work. A sought-after speaker, Nicola provides audiences with a human-centred approach to business and technology, allowing them to embrace innovation.
- 2025 - Chair of IBM
- 2023 - Joined IBM as Chief Executive
- 2019 - Non-Executive Director at Beazley plc
- 2018 - Non-Executive Director at Drax Group
- 2017 - Vice President of Global Sales, Marketing & Ops at Microsoft
- 2015 - Non-Executive Director at Ofgem
- 2013 - Chief Operating Officer at Microsoft
- 2013 - Member of the UK Council for Child Internet Safety board
- 2012 - Board Member at TechUK
- 2008 - General Manager in the public sector at Microsoft
- 2003 - General Manager at Siemens Business Services
- 2003 - Sales and Marketing Director at Siemens IT Solutions Ltd
- 1999 - Business Development Director at CSC
- 1998 - Managing Consultant at Ernst & Young
- 1997 - Lead Business Transformation Manager at BNFL
- 1991 - Corporate Strategy Manager at BHFL
How to hire Nicola Hodson
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Nicola Hodson for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
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