Nadir Miheisi

"The Transition to Portfolio programme helps you to realise your skills are in demand and they're usable in more contexts than what you've actually used them for."

1. Can you tell us about your professional background and the key skillsets you bring to your portfolio career?

My background has mostly been in tech and emerging technologies, particularly immersive tech. I’ve had the opportunity to lead some exciting, cutting edge projects, and I bring a strong mix of hands on technical experience and strategic leadership. That blend of execution and big picture thinking has shaped my approach to advisory work.

2. What motivated you to join the Transition to Portfolio programme?

I’d been working in leadership, management, and consultancy roles, so it felt like a natural next step. While it wasn’t an exact match, I saw a lot of transferable skills and liked the idea of taking on something more varied and challenging. It felt like the right opportunity to learn, grow, and stretch myself in a different direction.

3. What impact has completing the Transition to Portfolio programme had on your portfolio career?

I’ve completed the programme and am currently doing my placement. The mentorship has been really valuable. It’s helped me understand how to position myself and go after roles more confidently. The placement has also given me practical experience, which has made a big difference in preparing me for future opportunities.

4. How did things change for you before and after your pro bono placement with us?

The biggest change was learning to take a more hands off approach. I’m used to being technically involved, so adapting to a purely advisory role took some adjustment. The thinking process is similar, but the delivery is different. You’re guiding, not doing. That shift was probably the most significant difference for me.

5. What’s a key lesson that shaped your approach to advisory work?

Getting out there and meeting people. My mentor really emphasised the value of face to face interaction, and it’s something I found incredibly important. Building relationships in person creates trust and opens doors. Aside from that, the small actionable tips I picked up from mentoring were really helpful. Simple things that help you put your best foot forward.

6. Do you feel more prepared to take on non exec, fractional, or advisory roles now?

Definitely. The programme helped me see my existing skills in a new light. It wasn’t about learning something completely new, but about understanding the value of what I already bring and how to apply it in new ways. That shift in mindset has really built my confidence and made me feel much more prepared to pursue these roles and grow my network.