Nicola West: “Ensuring that strategic priorities are translated into measurable outcomes”

Professor Nicola West returns to the Executive Committee following two impactful terms as secretary general. Recently elected as an EFP officer (and future president) she brings with her deep institutional knowledge and a strong strategic vision. Professor West also reflects on lessons learned, priorities ahead, and her plans to strengthen the federation’s global influence.

Question: Returning to the Executive Committee, how does this new role feel and how has your perspective evolved?

Nicola West: Returning to the Executive Committee is both a privilege and an honour and, in many ways, a seamless continuation of my commitment to the EFP. Serving as secretary general gave me a deep understanding of how the federation functions: its governance, its people, and its potential.

My perspective has evolved from operational leadership to strategic foresight. I now see more clearly where the EFP can extend its influence globally, strengthen alignment across its structures, and lead with greater confidence in shaping the future of periodontal health.

Q: What key lessons from your previous leadership experience are you bringing into this new role?

NW: One of the most important lessons is that clarity and alignment drive impact. The EFP is at its strongest when its committees, national societies, and partners are working toward a shared purpose.

At the heart of my philosophy is a deep belief in equality: every EFP society matters, whether large or small.

I have also learned the importance of resilience and adaptability, particularly through leading during COVID and global uncertainty. Strong governance, transparent communication, and decisive leadership are essential to maintaining momentum in challenging times.

Q: What do you see as the EFP’s greatest strengths today and where are the opportunities?

NW: The EFP’s greatest strengths lie in its scientific credibility, its educational excellence, and its unique network of national societies. It is a trusted, authoritative voice in periodontology globally.

The opportunity now is to build on this foundation by increasing visibility, strengthening communication, and further aligning stakeholders. By doing so, we can amplify our impact, particularly in policy, prevention, and public health.

Q: What motivated you to take on this role at this stage?

NW: My motivation is rooted in a deep belief in the EFP and its potential. Having been closely involved in its evolution over many years, I feel both a responsibility and a readiness to contribute at the highest level.

This is a moment where experience, continuity, and vision can make a meaningful difference, and I am motivated to help guide the federation through its next phase of growth and influence.

Q: Based on your experience and long-standing engagement, what would you most like to contribute to the Executive Committee’s work?

NW:  I bring experience, strategic insight, and a proven track record of delivery. I would like to strengthen cohesion across the federation, support effective decision-making, and ensure that strategic priorities are translated into measurable outcomes.

Equally important is a collaborative and inclusive leadership style building on relationships across the EFP so that all voices contribute to our shared success.

Q: Which areas do you see as priorities for the future?

NW:  Education, prevention, and public health must remain central to our mission. Education is our core strength, and we must continue to expand its reach while maintaining excellence.

At the same time, there is significant opportunity in public health advocacy using evidence, economic modelling, and partnerships to position oral health within wider healthcare systems.

National societies are central to the EFP, and I wish to further strengthen these connections by creating closer dialogue, more opportunities for engagement and ensuring that their perspectives are fully represented.

Sustainability and responsible practice will also be essential, ensuring that we lead not only clinically, but ethically and environmentally.

Q: How can the EFP better support the next generation?

NW: The future of the EFP depends on how effectively we engage and support the next generation. We must create clear, structured pathways for early-career professionals through education, mentorship, committee involvement, and recognition.

At the same time, we need to strengthen our global community fostering collaboration, inclusivity, and a shared identity across countries and disciplines. The EFP should not only be a leading organization, but also a professional home.

Q: Looking ahead to your future presidency, what core values and vision would you like to bring?

NW: My vision is of a confident, visible, and globally influential federation: one that leads in science, education, clinical excellence, and policy.

The core values I would bring are integrity, clarity, inclusivity, and ambition. I would seek to strengthen communication, align stakeholders, and ensure that the EFP continues to shape the future of periodontal and oral health — not only within Europe, but worldwide.

Above all, I would aim to lead with purpose, ensuring that everything we do ultimately benefits patients and advances periodontology as a specialty.