More Information
- Address Shanghai, China
- Qualification Bachelors
Shanghai American School (SAS) is seeking an exceptional international school leader to take on the role of Head of School, with a start date of summer 2027.
Shanghai American School, an independent, non-profit, coeducational English-language day school, offers an American and IB Diploma curriculum from pre-kindergarten to grade 12 for families living in Shanghai. With campuses in Pudong and Puxi, SAS is the largest international school in China, known for its vibrant academic programme, high academic standards and commitment to shaping ethical global citizens through and inspiring and creative learning environment.
This is an exciting opportunity to join SAS and contribute to its continued success, following the announcement of James Nelligan’s departure. Operating in a competitive environment, SAS is currently at capacity with over 3,000 students across both campuses and consistently achieves excellent academic results. SAS is the school of choice in the region, and aims to ensure students not only excel academically but also develop the personal qualities, skills, and determination to make a positive impact on the world. The school’s mission is to inspire in all students a lifelong passion for learning, a commitment to act with integrity and compassion and the courage to live their dreams.
The next Head of School at Shanghai American School will be a sophisticated and globally attuned leader who brings strategic insight, cultural fluency, and emotional intelligence to one of the most dynamic educational roles in the world.This individual will embrace the complexity and opportunity of leading a large, dual-campus institution, guiding it with vision, authenticity, and care.
In partnership with the Board of Trustees, faculty, and families, the Head of School will steward the school’s people, programs, and resources with integrity—aligning SAS’s mission, operations, and aspirations to ensure the school remains globally respected, locally relevant, and educationally innovative. A skilled change leader, the next Head will balance thoughtful evolution with stability, inspiring confidence through clarity, collaboration, and courage in times of transition and growth.
A candidate brief is available to download here.
Interested candidates are encouraged to contact Educators Collaborative to learn more about this exceptional opportunity.
Submit applications via email to: Mary Seppala, Partner, mseppala@educatorscollaborative.com
Lisa Lyle, Partner, llyle@educatorscollaborative.com
Carol Santos, Partner, csantos@educatorscollaborative.com
Shanghai American School has a Child Safeguarding Policy that guides our faculty, staff, and families in matters related to the health, safety and care of children in attendance at our school. By accepting employment at SAS, all faculty and staff agree to work in partnership with the School and abide by the policies adopted by the SAS Board. Applications will be thoroughly and rigorously screened in line with our strong commitment to all aspects of child protection and safeguarding.
