Leadership Spotlight: Gilles Buck
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the High School Principal search for the International School Nido de Aguilas in Santiago, Chile. Congratulations to Gilles Buck for accepting the position, beginning July 2025! Gilles currently serves as the Secondary School Principal at the International School of Busan.
Gilles holds a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Lehigh University, a Master of Education in Secondary Science Education from the University of Arizona, and a Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Science from Tufts University.
His previous leadership roles include Associate Principal at Colegio FDR in Lima, Peru, and science teaching positions in various schools across North America, Asia, the Middle East, and South America. In this feature, learn what inspired Gilles to pursue a career in education, and what he looks forward to bringing as a leader to the International School Nido de Aguilas community.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
I was a third culture kid (I’m Swiss and French, but never lived in France and left Switzerland as an 11 year old), so there was a natural draw to living ‘abroad.’ I fell into education but immediately loved the connection and seeing the spark in learners. Helping others to become their best selves is a passion.
Congratulations on your upcoming role at International School Nido de Aguilas! What are you excited about in this new role?
I’m excited about my new role because I’m joining a wonderful community at a school where there are already great things happening and where there is a willingness to do what’s best for kids. I am looking to learn from the community and support its mission.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can your new community expect?
I believe in distributed leadership. I believe that harnessing all the talents in the organization is the best way to move an institution forward. Fundamentally, I believe that education should serve the individual students to grow into their best selves.
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
I appreciated the candor of the ISS team and the willingness to support me as a candidate.
International School Nido de Aguilas
Gilles and family in Barcelona
Many congratulations to Gilles on this exciting chapter ahead! We are wishing him and his family, including spouse Ellenore, son Gaël, and their golden retriever Lima a smooth transition to their new community. You can connect with Gilles on LinkedIn.
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.