Leadership Spotlight: Robert Sims
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Executive Director search for The Central & Eastern European Schools Association (CEESA) in Zagreb, Croatia. Congratulations to Dr. Robert Sims for accepting the position, beginning July 2025! Robert is currently the Director of Bonn International School in Bonn, Germany.
Robert holds a BA, English and Philosophy with an emphasis in Mathematics from Queen’s University; a BEd, Junior – Intermediate Certification in English and Mathematics from Queen’s University; an MEd, Leadership and Curriculum from Queen’s University; and a PhD, Educational Leadership from Touro University California.
His career has taken him to Germany, Poland, Colombia, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Canada. Robert has served as Director of International School of Krakow, Poland; Director of Colegio Granadino, Colombia; MS Principal of Colegio Bolivar, Colombia; and Secondary School Principal of Bandung International School, Indonesia.
In this feature, learn about his vision for transformative leadership, and how this new role at CEESA will be informed by 30 years of experience in international education.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
Education seemed a natural fit, and I entered the Queen’s University, Concurrent Education Program straight out of high school with the goal of becoming a Secondary Teacher, certified in English, Philosophy, and Math. The program had a focus on International Education, with a long standing International job fair run by the university. The seed was planted early, and my fascination with culture drew me overseas.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the CEESA community expect?
I believe that transformational leadership is essential for our schools and that leaders need to be visionary and risk-taking in promoting an idealism about what we hope to achieve, while maintaining a realism in where we are in our transformation. More than anything, innovation in our schools and of student learning relies on inspiring the people with whom we work, drawing on their knowledge, talents, and passions in striving for that next horizon.
Central and Eastern European Schools Association (CEESA)
Congratulations on your upcoming role at CEESA! What are you excited about in this new role?
After over 30 years of working in schools, I am excited by the opportunity to take my experience, knowledge and passion for education and put it to use in supporting schools in a new and challenging way, giving back to the profession that has been so incredibly rewarding for me both personally and professionally. I am truly looking forward to working with CEESA’s exceptional team in promoting our mission as “A movement for innovation where each learner’s experience is better tomorrow.”
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
Working with ISS in the recruitment process for the CEESA Executive Director role was natural and fluid. Every requirement was clearly articulated and the process was managed from start to finish with a wonderful blend of professionalism and familiarity that was greatly appreciated. Arnie, thanks for all of your support!
Many thanks to Robert for these reflections on his journey and new role at CEESA! We look forward to seeing his deep experience and care continue to make a world of difference in international education. You can connect with Robert on LinkedIn. Wishing him and his wife, Cynthia Clark, the very best in their future transition to Zagreb!
If you’re interested in pursuing a school leadership position, please check out our current leadership searches or get in touch with the ISS Leadership Search Team.