School Principal (Primary & Secondary)

About the School

Concordia International School Ningbo is a prestigious international school serving the expatriate and local communities in Ningbo. As part of the Concordia family of schools, we provide exceptional international education grounded in Christian values, offering IB programmes and preparing students to be globally competent, compassionate leaders.

Position Overview

We are seeking an exceptional, visionary School Principal to provide strategic leadership for our Primary and Secondary divisions. The successful candidate will be an instructional leader who fosters academic excellence, nurtures a positive school culture, and ensures the highest quality of IB education while upholding Concordia's mission and values.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

• Provide visionary leadership for Primary and Secondary divisions

• Develop and implement strategic plans aligned with school mission and IB standards

• Lead school improvement initiatives and innovation

• Ensure compliance with IB standards, accreditation requirements, and local regulations

• Represent the school to external stakeholders, including government, parents, and community

• Build and maintain the school's reputation and enrollment

Instructional Leadership:

• Champion excellence in teaching and learning across all divisions

• Ensure implementation of IB curriculum (PYP, MYP, and potentially DP)

• Promote research-based instructional practices and assessment

• Oversee curriculum development, review, and alignment

• Monitor student achievement data and drive continuous improvement

• Foster innovation in pedagogy and educational technology

Organizational Management:

• Oversee daily operations of Primary and Secondary divisions

• Manage budgets, resources, and facilities effectively

• Ensure health, safety, and security of all students and staff

• Develop and implement school policies and procedures

• Oversee admissions, enrollment, and student services

• Manage risk and ensure legal compliance

Human Resources Leadership:

• Recruit, develop, and retain high-quality faculty and staff

• Provide leadership development for divisional leaders and department heads

• Conduct performance evaluations and goal-setting

• Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and positive school culture

• Support staff wellbeing and professional growth

• Build effective teams and promote shared leadership

Student Learning & Wellbeing:

• Ensure holistic development of all students (academic, social, emotional, spiritual)

• Oversee student support services, including learning support and counseling

• Promote student voice, leadership, and agency

• Ensure effective pastoral care and discipline systems

• Support extracurricular programmes and student activities

• Champion equity, inclusion, and diversity

Community Engagement:

• Build strong partnerships with parents and families

• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders

• Engage with the broader Ningbo community

• Foster relationships with feeder schools and universities

• Collaborate with the Board of Governors/Trustees

• Represent Concordia's mission and values

IB Programme Leadership:

• Ensure fidelity to IB philosophy, standards, and practices

• Lead IB programme evaluation and self-study processes

• Support teachers in IB professional development

• Maintain IB authorization and good standing

• Promote international-mindedness and intercultural understanding

• Integrate IB learner profile across all divisions

Qualifications & Requirements

Essential:

• Master's degree in Educational Leadership, Administration, or related field (Doctorate preferred)

• Valid administrative credential/license from home country

• Minimum 7-10 years of teaching experience in international schools

• Minimum 5 years in senior leadership role (Principal, Vice-Principal, or equivalent)

• Extensive experience with IB programmes (PYP, MYP, and/or DP)

• Proven track record of school improvement and student achievement

• Deep understanding of international education and best practices

• Strong financial management and organizational skills

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills

• Native or near-native English proficiency

• Commitment to Concordia's Christian mission and values

• Cultural sensitivity and experience working in diverse environments

• Strong ethical leadership and integrity

Preferred:

• Doctorate in Educational Leadership or related field

• Experience as Principal in an IB international school

• Experience with CIS, WASC, or other international accreditation

• Familiarity with Chinese educational context and regulations

• Experience with strategic planning and change management

• Track record of building positive school culture and community

• Experience with enrollment management and marketing

• Proficiency in data analysis and school improvement methodologies

Leadership Competencies:

• Visionary and strategic thinker

• Collaborative and servant leadership style

• High emotional intelligence and cultural competence

• Excellent decision-making and problem-solving abilities

• Strong relationship-building and networking skills

• Ability to inspire, motivate, and influence others

• Resilience and adaptability in complex environments

• Commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Highly competitive, commensurate with qualifications and experience

• Housing: Furnished executive accommodation or generous housing allowance

• Flight Allowance: Annual round-trip airfare for teacher and dependents

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive international health insurance for family

• Tuition Remission: Full or significant tuition remission for dependent children

• Vehicle: Car allowance or school-provided vehicle

• Paid Leave: Winter and summer vacations, plus Chinese public holidays

• Professional Development: Generous funding for conferences, training, and leadership development

• Visa Support: Full assistance with work permit, residence permit, and family visas

• Relocation Support: Comprehensive relocation package and settling-in assistance

• Retirement Benefits: Contribution to pension or retirement plan

• Contract Completion Bonus: Subject to school policy

• Other Benefits: Utility allowance, home leave, and other executive benefits

About Ningbo

Ningbo is a major port city in Zhejiang Province with rich history and modern development:

• History: One of China's oldest cities with over 7,000 years of history

• Economy: Thriving economic hub and one of the world's busiest ports

• Location: Strategic position in the Yangtze River Delta, close to Shanghai (2 hours by high-speed rail)

• Culture: Rich cultural heritage, beautiful temples, and traditional architecture

• International Community: Growing expatriate community with international schools and businesses

• Quality of Life: High standard of living with modern amenities, beautiful parks, and coastal location

• Cost of Living: Reasonable cost of living compared to Shanghai and Beijing

• Climate: Humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons

• Concordia International School Ningbo is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion. We seek leaders who share our commitment to Christian values, academic excellence, and service to others. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references, comprehensive background checks, and medical clearance.