Dr. Andrew S. Nevin is a distinguished economist, strategist, and thought leader with almost 40 years of global experience spanning finance, economic policy, neuroscience, and venture-backed startups. He is the Research Professor and Inaugural Director of the Brainomics™ Venture at the Center for BrainHealth, University of Texas at Dallas, where he pioneers research on the economic value of brain health and its transformative impact on individuals, businesses, and societies.
A Rhodes Scholar, Dr. Nevin’s academic background is as impressive as his professional journey. He holds a PhD in Economics from Harvard University, where his thesis, “A Philosophical Critique of Utility Theory,” was read by two Nobel Laureates and 3rd/4th PhD thesis readers, Amartya Sen and Thomas Schelling. He also earned an MA in Philosophy and Politics from Oxford University and a BSc in Computer Science & Mathematics from Western University, where he was the youngest graduate at the time, completing his studies at just 17 years old.
Throughout his career, Dr. Nevin has held executive leadership roles across four continents, with significant expertise in financial services, strategy, and governance. He spent over a decade at PwC, most recently serving as Partner and Chief Economist for PwC West Africa, where he led economic transformation strategies and advised multinational corporations, policymakers, and investors. His tenure at McKinsey & Company in Toronto and Paris solidified his expertise in corporate strategy, financial markets, and risk management. Additionally, as President of United Family Hospitals in China, he played a key leadership role during the SARS outbreak in 2003, demonstrating his ability to navigate crises in healthcare and economic systems.
Beyond his executive roles, Dr. Nevin has been a nation-builder and policy advocate in Nigeria, helping shape financial sustainability and governance reforms. He is the Co-Creator of Self-Organising Naija, a movement for civic innovation, and the Founding Governor of the Financial Centre for Sustainability (FC4S) Lagos, which aligns Nigeria’s financial system with sustainable development goals. He has also served as an Advisory Board Member of the Aig Imoukhuede Foundation and as a Trustee of the HH Muhammadu Sanusi II SDG Challenge, reinforcing his commitment to Africa’s economic development.
A sought-after keynote speaker and media contributor, Dr. Nevin has delivered hundreds of speaking engagements, particularly across Africa, Asia, and North America, and has frequently appeared in global media discussing economic policy, financial innovation, and the future of brain health. His thought leadership extends to numerous publications, including influential reports such as “The Future of Nigeria: 3 Critical Levers for Improving HDI,” “Impact of Corruption on the Nigerian Economy,” and “Nigeria: Looking Beyond Oil.” He also authors Nevinomics.com, a platform dedicated to forward-thinking economic insights.
With a passion for neuroscience and cognitive economics, Dr. Nevin now focuses on the intersection of brain health and economic policy, advocating for a new paradigm in measuring human productivity and flourishing. He believes that brain health is the next frontier in economic growth, and his work at the Center for BrainHealth aims to provide data-driven solutions to improve cognitive resilience and workforce efficiency.
Dr. Nevin is an active board member and advisor to multiple organizations, particularly those in Africa, neuroscience, and financial services. With his unique blend of academic rigor, executive leadership, and strategic foresight, he brings unparalleled insights to boards looking to drive innovation, sustainable growth, and global impact. His personal mission statement, “Part of the Brain Health Revolution,” encapsulates his dedication to shaping the future of human potential through economic and cognitive transformation.
Character: Dr. Andrew S. Nevin is a visionary leader committed to driving economic transformation, brain health innovation, and sustainable development on a global scale.
Knowledge: With a PhD in Economics from Harvard and extensive expertise in finance, strategy, and neuroscience, he combines academic rigor with real-world economic and business insights.
Strategic: His ability to develop and execute high-impact strategies has shaped financial markets, governance policies, and corporate growth across Africa, Asia, and beyond.
Communication: A sought-after speaker and thought leader, he effectively conveys complex economic and scientific concepts through media engagements, keynote speeches, and influential publications.