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Frequently Asked Questions

For Clients

 

Can you work anywhere in the world? Are there any restrictions?

 

Yes. Nigel Lightfoot Associates operates through a broad network of consultants and trusted partners, allowing us to work in most countries. We can also provide support remotely, including situation reports, risk assessments, and planning guidance when on‑site work is not feasible.

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When are you available to work on my project? How soon can you start?

 

We understand that timing is often critical. The best first step is to contact us directly so we can understand your needs. Once we have that information, we can confirm availability and agree realistic timelines for support.

 

Do you only work on emerging public health issues? What about ongoing problems?

 

No. While we specialise in emerging threats — such as new outbreaks and biosecurity events — we also work on longer-term or recurring challenges. Many public health problems evolve over time, and we support both immediate planning and sustained resilience building.

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Do you work with any size of organisation? What about governments?

 

Yes. We work with national governments, international agencies, NGOs, and private sector organisations. Our Independent Collaboration Model allows us to scale our support to fit the complexity and size of each project.

 

How do I engage you on a project?

 

Please get in touch with an outline of your challenge. We will arrange an initial discussion to explore the scope and requirements, and then propose a tailored approach to address your needs.

 

What is the Independent Collaboration Model?

 

The Independent Collaboration Model is the chambers-style structure through which we work. Rather than operating as a fixed consultancy, we assemble senior specialists with the exact skills needed for each project, ensuring clients receive direct access to high‑level expertise without unnecessary overheads.

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Do you provide operational crisis response teams?

 

No. We are a strategic consultancy. During a crisis, we provide high‑level advisory support to help senior decision‑makers interpret evolving information and prioritise actions. We do not deploy as a field response team, but our guidance helps ensure those on the ground are equipped to act effectively.

 

Do you provide training or just advisory services?

 

Training is central to our work. We design and deliver programmes, workshops, and scenario exercises that strengthen preparedness, enhance leadership capability, and build organisational resilience.

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Is your work confidential?

 

Yes. Many of our engagements involve sensitive or classified information, and we treat confidentiality as fundamental. We only reference client work publicly with explicit permission.

 

FAQs for Prospective Consultants

 

I’m a health professional — how do I become part of your consulting network?

 

We welcome discussions with experienced professionals interested in contributing to our work. Please contact us to arrange an initial conversation. If there’s a good fit, we’ll follow up by reviewing your CV and experience and explore opportunities for collaboration, guided by our commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and equality.

 

What kinds of expertise do you look for in consultants?

 

Our network includes specialists in public health, microbiology, epidemiology, policy development, and crisis communications. We value senior-level experience, an ability to work collaboratively, and a commitment to evidence-based solutions in complex health security environments.

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How does working with NLA differ from a traditional consultancy?

 

Because we operate through the Independent Collaboration Model, our consultants retain autonomy but collaborate closely on projects where their skills are needed. This structure allows for flexibility, varied engagements, and opportunities to contribute to high‑level initiatives without the constraints of a fixed hierarchy.

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Do you work internationally?

 

Yes. Our projects often span multiple countries, and we welcome consultants with international experience or an interest in working on global health security challenges.

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For organisations seeking support, visit our Contact page to discuss your needs. For professionals interested in joining our network, please get in touch here to explore opportunities.

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