CEO / Head of School Search

As we prepare for the departure of our CEO, John Nixon, at the end of the 2025-2026 academic year, the Board of Directors has begun the search for his successor. This is a pivotal time for our school, and we are committed to ensuring a transparent and inclusive process. Here, we will share updates on the search, key milestones, and opportunities for community engagement as we move forward together.

Update – October 2025

The CEO search process is actively underway. The Board of Directors and the Search Committee continue to work closely with our recruitment partners to identify the best candidate to lead TES into its next phase. The process has taken a little more time as we remain dedicated to finding an outstanding leader who will continue to nurture our school’s growth and uphold the values that make TES special.

We look forward to keeping the community updated as the process moves forward and to sharing the appointment news in due course. Thank you for your continued trust and support.

Announcement from the Board of Directors

Leadership Transition Announcement for Summer 2026

(Click to view. Content available in English, Chinese, French, and German.)

TES CEO Search Timeline*

Frequently Asked Questions

Below, you’ll find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions regarding the search for Taipei European School’s next CEO/Head of School. If you have any additional inquiries, please contact the Search Committee at ceo.search@tes.tp.edu.tw.

Who is leading the search process?

The Board of Directors of Taipei European School is responsible for selecting and appointing the next CEO/Head of School. To facilitate the process, the Board has established a Search Committee comprising several Board members, tasked with recommending a final candidate. Recognizing the significance of this leadership transition, the Board has engaged Odgers Berndtson, a globally renowned executive search firm based in London, to support the search.

What is Odgers Berndtson’s role in the search?

Odgers Berndtson is a leading global executive search firm specializing in leadership recruitment, including roles in educational leadership. With a presence in over 30 countries, the firm brings extensive expertise in identifying and attracting top-tier talent for international schools. The Board selected Odgers Berndtson after a rigorous evaluation of search firms, choosing them for their strong track record in international education, global reach, and understanding of international schools in Asia.

As a strategic partner, Odgers Berndtson guides the Search Committee in structuring the process, ensuring alignment with best practices in executive recruitment. In the initial stages—February and March—their consultants are working closely with the Board to gain insights into TES’s evolving culture, strategic priorities, and long-term vision. This informs the development of a leadership profile outlining the essential qualities, values, and leadership approach needed for the next Head of School to thrive within the TES community.

How is the Search Committee structured to ensure broad representation?

The Search Committee is composed of members from the Board of Directors and the school's HR team. In addition, the Committee will collaborate with various sub-committees representing key stakeholders, including students, teachers, staff, parents, and school leadership. This structure ensures that the selection process considers the diverse perspectives of the TES community.

What approach will be used to evaluate candidates?

The search aims to identify exceptional leaders with strong international education experience, academic expertise, and a multicultural perspective. Ideal candidates will demonstrate strategic vision, effective leadership, cultural awareness, and excellent communication skills.

Odgers Berndtson will conduct an initial screening of applications and preliminary interviews before presenting a shortlist to the Search Committee. The Committee will then conduct interviews and invite finalists to engage further with the TES community, involving stakeholders before making a final recommendation. The process will also include reference checks and final candidate presentations.

How will stakeholders be engaged throughout the process?

TES is committed to an inclusive and transparent search process. Stakeholder engagement will include:

Surveys to gather input on the school’s current status and areas of improvement for the next Head of School.
Opportunities for community members to attend shortlisted candidates’ presentations, either in person or virtually.
Regular updates from the Search Committee to keep the community informed at key stages of the process.

How will leadership continuity be ensured during the transition?

A well-structured transition plan will ensure continuity and stability as the new Head of School assumes leadership. This process will include:

Strategic handover meetings between the outgoing and incoming Heads.
Engagement with key stakeholders, including faculty, parents, and students.
Clear and consistent communication to keep the TES community informed throughout the transition.

The Board, current CEO, and leadership team will work closely with the incoming Head to facilitate a smooth transition, ensuring that they are well-prepared to lead the school effectively from day one.