Description

In this conversation, Greg Smith, Vice President of International School Services (ISS), shares his journey in international education, discussing his leadership style, defining moments, cultural insights, and the challenges faced during COVID-19. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration, localization in education, and being true to oneself as a leader. Greg also reflects on the future of international education and offers valuable advice for aspiring leaders.

Guest Bio

Greg currently the Vice President of International Schools Services with responsibility for the delivery of ISS services across Asia, with particular focus on our school management and consultancies. He is based in Shenzhen, Southern China.

He is Australian, originally from Perth. In 2005 after a great career in public schools across the big state of Western Australia I got the chance to be interim elementary principal at the International School of Beijing. Loved it and international education seemed to like me so much I've now had 18 years in schools in China and also in Vientiane, Laos. I took a few years out of schools to co-found the company Schrole which shook up recruitment riding the wave of enhanced technology. I have shared this journey with my wife, also an Australian teacher, and two kids who are now resident in Australia (son) and the US (daughter).

Takeaways

• Look for open doors and opportunities.
• Leadership should be driven by a sense of service.
• Defining moments shape your leadership journey.
• Cultural understanding is crucial in international education.
• COVID-19 presented unprecedented leadership challenges.
• Mistakes can be learning opportunities.
• Balance work and personal life to avoid burnout.
• Focus on the journey, not just the destination.
• Collaboration is more beneficial than competition in education.
• Be authentic and true to yourself as a leader.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Greg Smith and His Journey

03:00 Leadership Style and Philosophy

05:59 Defining Moments in Leadership

08:50 Cultural Insights in International Education

12:01 Challenges of Leadership During COVID-19

14:56 Learning from Mistakes and FOMO

17:56 Balancing Work and Life

20:57 Future of International Education

23:58 Advice for Aspiring Leaders

27:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Host

Kevin Fullbrook is an international school leader with 25+ years of global education experience across Australia, China, and the Middle East. As host of The Leadership Passport Podcast, Kevin dives into the stories, strategies, and insights of education leaders from around the world. With a passion for inclusive leadership, student agency, and sustainable school cultures, he brings thoughtful conversations and practical takeaways for educators, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in the future of learning.

Connect with him on Instagram (@kevin.fullbrook) and LinkedIn (Kevin Fullbrook)

Keywords

leadership, international education, cultural insights, COVID-19 challenges, personal growth, educational leadership, Greg Smith, school management, mentorship, future of education