Head of School (IB Continuum: PYP - MYP - DP)

If your talent as an outstanding educator and strategic leader lies in motivating students, inspiring faculty, and engaging parents, then the International School of Florence (ISF) offers the type of vibrant environment where you will flourish and grow. 

This is an extraordinary opportunity for a talented and exceptionally motivated leader to embrace our Mission, Vision, and historic strengths to ensure the next innovative and successful chapter in the school’s evolution. 

To do this you will have followed an excellent career pathway. One that demonstrates meaningful leadership experience, in depth IB knowledge and the diverse range of attributes, attitudes, and competencies relevant to the needs and demands of a school dedicated to outstanding teaching and learning practices. Critical to your success will be the drive and vision to inspire our community coupled with the interpersonal skills to ensure the effective execution of the school’s strategic intent. You will value and enjoy working constructively and in harmony with our internal and external stakeholders. Your educational philosophy will be underpinned by a focus on the wellbeing of students, and the faculty. You will have a strong entrepreneurial mindset and a deep understanding of the complexities of school budgeting.

ISF is accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS), Middle States Association (MSA), and authorised by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). 

The school is governed by a thirteen-member Board of Directors to whom the Head of School is responsible.

The school’s Strategic Plan was reviewed and updated in May 2026 and is supported for the sustainable delivery of its intent by an operational plan.

About you. 

Qualifications

• A postgraduate qualification in education or educational leadership and/or an MBA or similar. 

• 7+ years of progressively responsible leadership in international/IB schools, including proven successful Head/Principal or Deputy Head experience.

• In addition to fluent English a knowledge of an additional European language would be of distinct advantage

Experience and Professional Behaviour:

• Significant international leadership experience relevant to the post. 

• Deep understanding of and intercultural sensitivity to working within another country and the demands of its legal framework and institutions. 

• Change agility able to anticipate resistance, build coalitions, and anchor a change culture. 

• Ability to convert and monitor ISF strategic intent into well executed plans.

• Demonstrates an empathetic and agile leadership style.

• Experience of all International Baccalaureate programmes.

• Evidence of driving student achievement through focus on using data and benchmarks to monitor progress in student learning.

• Proven ability to bring about sustainable change and capacity building.

• Successful management of school finances showing cost control and financial planning that demonstrates sound financial acumen and judgment 

• Experience in people management and development to motivate faculty and staff and to improve learning.

• Proven experience in the use of technology and AI to enhance teaching and learning and the effective use of education resources.

Personal Qualities and Values:

• Courage and conviction of opinions and decisions

• Inter-cultural literacy

• Ability to forge and sustain credible relationships with the wider community

• Open and collaborative leadership style

• Able to focus activities on the achievement of the Mission, Vision and Values

• A consistent record of good judgment and accountability

• Ability to lead learning Innovation

• Purposeful and responsive influencing style

• Excellent prioritising, planning and organising skills

• Excellent team working skills

• Excellent communication skills

• Able to work under pressure and to deadlines

• Warmth and humour

Benefits

Include a competitive salary package, a strong focus on professional development opportunities and the benefit of living in an attractive, historic and safe environment

How to Apply

Please apply by 25 October to Adele Hodgson email address: adele_hodgson@educationparadigms.com

Applicants should provide:

• Current CV (no longer than 3 pages)

• Letter of application

• A targeted statement of educational philosophy relevant to ISF

• Contact details of three relevant professional referees including the most recent employer

International School of Florence is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to undergo relevant background checks.