Nicholas is currently the Executive Director of the Knowledge Institute for Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions (Knowledge Institute). The Knowledge Institute works with individuals and organizations from various sectors and care settings to mobilize evidence, strengthen knowledge and skills, and accelerate system change to improve mental health, substance use, and addictions services in Ontario.

Prior to joining the KI, Nicholas was the Director, Innovation at the Mental Health Commission of Canada (MHCC). During his 13-year tenure at MHCC, he was the Director of multiple portfolios aimed at ensuring that those living in Canada have access to equitable, culturally safe, appropriate, stigma free, and recovery-oriented mental health services and supports — when, where, and how they choose.

Nicholas is part of multiple provincial, pan-Canadian and international advisory councils to share knowledge and resources, including eMHIC (eMental Health International Collaborative) Global Leadership Council. In 2022, Nicholas received eMHIC’s Lifetime Achievement Award for e-mental health development, implementation, and forward-thinking leadership.

Nicholas holds bachelor's degrees in political science and communication studies from the University of Windsor, a Master of Business Administration from the Australian Institute of Business, and a Certified Health Executive designation from the Canadian College of Health Leaders.