Leadership Spotlight: Annette Austin
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Director search for International School of Ulm/Neu-Ulm GmbH in Neu-Ulm, Germany. Congratulations to Annette Austin for accepting the position, beginning August 2025! Annette currently serves as the Head of School at Stellarworld School in Mumbai.
Annette holds a Certificate in Educational Leadership from Harvard Business School, a Certificate in International School Leadership from Principal’s Training Center, and a Bachelors Degree in Education.
Her previous leadership roles include Head of School at International School of Helderberg in Cape Town, South Africa and PYP Coordinator / Deputy Principal at the Bavarian International School in Munich, Germany. Annette has worked in international education across South Africa, Germany, and India.
In this feature, read about Annette’s passion for education, commitment to fostering global citizenship, and how her diverse experiences — both personal and professional — shape her approach to education and leadership.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
To be a teacher is truly a significant privilege. Henry Adams said “ Teachers affect eternity.”
As educational leaders we have the opportunity to inspire greatness in each one of our students and staff members. Every day we have the opportunity to change the world and make it a better place, by inspiring our students and teachers to be better people.
My philosophy on education is derived from my philosophy on life. I believe that the main role of education in an International context is the potential contribution to international understanding and world peace and preparing our youth for world citizenship, global awareness and intercultural understanding.
Annette dresses up as a princess.
International School of Ulm
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the ISU community expect?
I see myself as a confident, positive and innovative problem solver and leader with excellent interpersonal skills. My strengths include decision making, people management/mentoring, working well under pressure, conceptualisation, initiative, analytical skills, interaction with people at all levels and all ages, curriculum development, organisational skills, expenditure control, creativity, empathy, flexibility and personal ethics. I believe that school success is a direct result of school leadership.
Especially in the 21st century, students’ character, social-emotional skills and academic competencies will define school excellence. Contexts need to be created that engages the school in building empathy through moral action and service and to fill the school with opportunities for student goal setting, decision making and problem solving. Sustaining an excellent school is central to fostering a thriving, globally-focused community. In our post-COVID world, it is crucial to shift our thinking about education to prioritise social and emotional well-being, build trusting relationships, and address inequalities in our society. I am dedicated to supporting the robust ISU learning community and the future development of the school, embracing academic excellence alongside holistic development and well-being.
Congratulations on your upcoming role at International School of Ulm! What are you excited about in this new role?
I feel truly privileged to be joining a school community that is so committed to the success and well-being of its students. I’m inspired by the passion of the staff, the incredible potential in the children, and the shared vision for the future.
As I prepare to officially take on my role as director, I want you all to know that I am committed to being a leader who listens, collaborates, and fosters a culture of respect, growth, and innovation. This school has so much to be proud of, and I cannot wait to be part of its next chapter. Together, we will continue to create an environment where every child feels valued, supported, and excited about their learning journey.
Enjoying a stunning day by the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.
Annette and her family pose for a photo.
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
The Search team were warm, approachable with an obvious desire to assist as much as they can.
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
Having lived in South Africa, Switzerland, The Czech Republic, Germany and India, I am happy to be returning to Germany which is my home. My experiences abroad are vast, I began my career as a teacher, served as a spouse in the diplomatic corps, had my own import/export business, opened my own culinary school, but later returned to what I love best…… education and educational leadership.
Many thanks to Annette Austin for sharing her insights, experiences, and vision for education. We wish her and the vibrant community at International School of Ulm the best in this new chapter ahead!
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.