About Nesta

Nesta is an innovation foundation. For us, innovation means turning bold ideas into reality and changing lives for the better. We use our expertise, skills and funding in areas where there are big challenges facing society.

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Kyra Kocis

Design & Digital Programme Development Manager, Design & Technology

Kyra is a design & digital programme development manager, supporting Nesta and the Behavioural Insights Team designers to use design methodologies within their projects.

Before Nesta, Kyra worked as a research and events coordinator for Future of London, where she planned their annual conference, Unlocking Social Value, to discuss how the built environment sector can deliver more meaningful social value for communities. Prior to this, she worked as a researcher with the National League of Cities, Center for Municipal Practice. Her portfolio focused on the Future of Work and how cities can better adapt to changing workforce trends, implement training and career advancement pathways that are diverse, equitable and inclusive and create liveable communities for all residents.

Kyra studied Science Technology and International Affairs at Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. She holds a master’s degree in Social Science Research Methods (University of Sussex) and a master’s degree in International Urban Planning (University College London, Bartlett School of Planning). She is passionate about understanding the connection between technology, society and development. She authored dissertations on artisan cottage industries and industrial textile policy in Jaipur, India; digital tools for community engagement in urban planning; and urban manufacturing and the circular economy.

Outside of work, Kyra gives tours of disused spaces on the London Underground and often knits and crochets while listening to podcasts.