Naomi Naik

Bachelor of Science 2017, Biology; Bachelor of Arts 2017, English 

Naomi Naik is an Associate Director on FGS Global’s Health team, bringing expertise in commercial and public health to client engagements. Before joining FGS Global, Naomi served as a Senior Communications Associate at Luminary Labs, an open innovation consultancy firm. Her focus on innovative digital strategies and risk management proved instrumental in projects for federal agencies like ARPA-H, CDC, U.S. Department of Education, HHS, and VA, as well as pharmaceutical companies, including Pfizer and Roche. She previously gained public health sector experience while working at the United Nations Foundation’s Shot@Life initiative, the Pan-American World Health Organization / World Health Organization, and KIND Snacks.

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What excites you about the work you do? I have the opportunity to provide counsel on corporate affairs and organizational priorities for clients engaged in scientific discovery and those advancing novel approaches to improving human health. Each day brings a new challenge, allowing me to tackle diverse issues and continuously learn and adapt in an ever-evolving landscape!

What is the most significant career experience you've had so far, and what made it meaningful to you? The most significant career experience I've had was working with a pharmaceutical company to set up their digital health incubator, combining my expertise in corporate affairs with my passion for healthcare innovation. This project was incredibly meaningful to me as it allowed me to collaborate with a diverse team and contribute to the creation of transformative health technologies that have the potential to improve countless lives.

How did GWU and the UHP prepare you for your professional journey? In what ways has your career evolved since you graduated from GWU? UHP provided both personal and professional support, equipping me with the skills needed to thrive in a high-stress international environment. Through numerous events and opportunities, UHP prepared me for the challenges of my career. The planning tactics and strategies I learned during my time in the program continue to be integral to my professional approach today, guiding my work and decision-making processes.

Advice for current UHP students: Focus on yourself and your own path. In college, for the first time, many students will find their paths diverging from those of their friends, making it essential to avoid comparisons. Embrace this opportunity to better yourself by staying open to new experiences and opportunities. You never know what new interests or passions might emerge!