Managing Director, International

The Managing Director, International is a critical senior leadership role, responsible for shaping and delivering the global development of Wycombe Abbey through Wycombe Abbey International Limited (WAI).Working closely with the Headmistress and the WAI Board, the postholder will lead the development and implementation of the School’s International Strategy, oversee relationships with existing international partners, and identify and pursue new opportunities for high-quality Wycombe Abbey schools around the world.The role combines strategic planning, partnership development and operational oversight, ensuring that all international schools reflect the educational values and standards of Wycombe Abbey while protecting and enhancing the School’s reputation.In doing so, the Managing Director, International will play a central role in building a distinctive global network of schools that extends the reach and impact of a Wycombe Abbey education.Reports to: The Headmistress, while also working closely with the Chair of WAI, the Bursar and other senior School staff.Contract: This is a full-time, permanent contract. The postholder will be expected to travel extensively. Flexible working arrangements will be considered although it is expected that the post holder will spend a significant portion of the week in School when not travelling.Strategy and GovernanceProactively lead the development and ongoing evolution of the School’s international growth strategy, presenting proposals to the WAI Board and the Council of Wycombe Abbey School (WA) and securing approval for the strategic direction, investment priorities and associated policies governing the international portfolio.Be responsible for the delivery of the approved international strategy, ensuring that strategic objectives are translated into clear operational plans, measurable milestones and sustainable commercial outcomes.Develop and oversee a robust governance, inspection and quality assurance framework across the international network to ensure that all partner schools operate to the academic, pastoral and safeguarding standards expected of Wycombe Abbey and that the School’s global reputation is protected and enhanced.Provide reporting to the WAI Board and WA Council on strategy, international performance, growth opportunities, risk exposure and emerging market developments, enabling informed decision-making at Board level.Maintain a strong external perspective on global education markets, identifying emerging opportunities, regulatory developments and competitive dynamics within the international independent school sector.Ensure that risks arising from international partnerships and operations are proactively identified, evaluated and mitigated through effective governance, contractual structures and operational oversight.Understand the role of WAI within the School’s overall strategy and mission, and ensure that the work of WAI promotes Wycombe Abbey’s mission and strengthens the organisation long term.International OperationsManage the day-to-day relationship with international partners on behalf of the WAI Board.Ensure the School fulfils its obligations under any collaboration agreements or other international contracts.Coordinate and support the School’s quality assurance arrangements with its international schools to ensure that the schools are operating in line with the standards expected by Wycombe Abbey, as well as those of local regulatory authorities.Build the reputation of the School’s brand and reputation for international education to support international staff and pupil recruitment.Support the recruitment of senior international staff.Maintain regular contact with the Heads of the international schools and facilitate cooperation, collaboration and exchanges between Wycombe Abbey