Dr. Nashater Deu Solheim

Dr. Nashater Deu Solheim is a forensic psychologist, leadership strategist, and founder and CEO of Progressing Minds, a company specializing in negotiation and influence training for leadership and organizational culture development. Solheim holds a doctorate in clinical and forensic psychology from the University of Surrey and completed expert negotiator training at Harvard Law School. With more than 25 years of experience in leadership, influence, and negotiation, she has worked across government, corporate, and entrepreneurial sectors, advising leaders and organizations globally. Her background combines scientific expertise with executive leadership, enabling her to translate psychological principles into practical leadership strategies.

Solheim began her career as a forensic psychologist, conducting clinical research in the neuropsychology of criminal behavior. She developed an interest in effective learning strategies for sustainable success and worked with returning veterans at the British Ministry of Defense, supporting individuals affected by trauma in conflict zones. Transitioning to executive coaching and leadership development, Solheim has held executive leadership roles focused on strategy and leadership development in government entities in the UK and Norway, global corporations, small and medium-sized enterprises, and entrepreneurial ventures.

Solheim is the author of the book "The Leadership PIN Code: Unlocking the Key to Willing and Winning Relationships." The book, recommended by Harvard Business Review and featured on Forbes' list of "8 Books That Make You Reconsider the Way You Manage Relationships," explores the integration of persuasion, influence, and negotiation in leadership. It presents a framework for building high-performing teams and creating impact in daily work. Solheim is also a Harvard Business Review contributor and serves as an executive coach, advising businesses on leadership influence based on the principles outlined in her book.

As a keynote speaker, Solheim has delivered presentations on leadership, influence, and trust at international conferences, corporate events, and government forums. Her TEDx talk, "What Working with Psychopaths Taught Me About Leadership," has received over one million views, offering insights into the psychology of influence, trust, and decision-making. She has appeared on HBR IdeaCast, discussing her experiences from working with individuals in maximum security settings and military personnel to executive coaching in business. Solheim's expertise in leadership psychology, negotiation, and organizational culture positions her as a recognized authority on leadership, trust, and human performance.