It is with great sadness that we announce the peaceful passing of our dear friend and supporter, Nicky Painter, at Winchester Hospice a few days ago.
Nicky was a larger-than-life character who brought joy and humour wherever she went. The life and soul of every party, her sharp wit and readiness with a joke often belied the diligence and dedication she brought to her work. She was undoubtedly one of the Institute's greatest and longest-serving supporters, contributing her expertise, knowledge, and unwavering effort selflessly to five Chief Executives over the years.
Born in Northamptonshire in 1943, where her family had been evacuated during the war, Nicky earned a BA (Hons) in Science from the Open University. She married Tim Painter, with whom she shared a love of sailing. Although their marriage ended in divorce, they remained close friends.
Nicky had a distinguished career as a senior civil servant at the Ministry of Defence, where she was commended for her contributions during the Falklands War. She spent her final year at the MOD on secondment to the British Military Advisory Team in Zimbabwe, a posting she thoroughly enjoyed.
In her later career, she worked as a consultant, primarily with the Institute for Collaborative Working, where she most recently edited our Insight magazine, and prior to that The Partner Magazine. She was an enormous supporter of the Institute being recognised as a Fellow for her achievements.
Beyond her professional life, Nicky's talents and passions were many. She was an accomplished pianist, trumpeter, and saxophonist and loved dancing—especially to traditional jazz. She was an avid sailor, owning several boats and participating in various sailing clubs, and even took up skiff racing later in life, winning numerous events in both sculling and coxing. She also volunteered with Riding for the Disabled. Nicky had a keen sense of humour and a curious mind, as evidenced by her membership in quirky societies like the Pylon Appreciation Society.
Her evenings were often marked by her beloved 6:00pm Gin-and-French, and she had a reputation for not suffering fools gladly. Yet, beneath her sharp exterior, she was inherently kind and generous. While she had no children of her own, she was deeply loved by her many nephews, nieces, and godchildren, as well as by her countless friends.
Nicky will be profoundly missed by all who knew her.
