Nikola has over 15 years’ experience in the Pharmaceutical industry and is currently the Head of Regulatory Affairs SA for Aspen Pharmacare.  Nikola is a Pharmacist with a passion for the industry and has been proactively involved in the Pharmaceutical profession at local, regional and global levels. Following employment in the public sector, Nikola started her career at Aspen in manufacturing and advanced through various Pharmaceutical Affairs and Management roles in both local and global business units.  Highlights include leading and managing diverse teams across multiple countries, designing and implementing Pharmaceutical Management Systems across the group and being involved in multiple strategic optimization projects in various capacities.  She enjoys working collaboratively in a cross-functional setting and aspires to find unique solutions to diverse challenges.

Nikola is passionate about the development and leadership of Women in the industry and currently serves on the Aspen Women’s Forum committee which seeks to connect, engage and enable women at Aspen.  Her personal goals in Women’s development and advancement are to see a greater number of Women holding positions of impact and influence in the Pharmaceutical industry, by inspiring and promoting the integrated growth of women to enhance their effectiveness in career management and personal development, using tools such as coaching and mentoring, networking and learning programs, promoting a culture of trust and support and facilitating gender-sensitive governance at decision-making levels.

Nikola has received several accolades including Global winner for the Aspen Employee Recognition Awards: Women Achievement Award (2018) in recognition of exceptional achievement and excellence in her chosen field, Finalist in the Standard Bank Rising Star Awards and a finalist in the Brian Seymour National Memorial Award for academic achievement, leadership, & commitment to the profession of pharmacy.

Nikola believes in striving to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle with consistent focus on personal development and growth. She lives in Durban and is married with two very active young boys who keep her on her toes.  In her personal time, she loves spending quality time with her family and friends, participating in outdoor leisure activities, travelling, listening to music and reading.