Leadership Spotlight: Max Gygax
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Chief Financial Officer search for Taipei American School. Congratulations to Max Gygax for accepting the position, beginning July 2024! Max’s most recent role was Chief Financial Officer and Co-Founder of Transitions Without Borders.
Max holds a BA in Theology & Philosophy from Pacific Union College; an MBA in Finance from the University of San Francisco; and a PhD in Econometrics & Ethicometrics from Trident University. His previous school experiences have also taken him to Hawaii Preparatory Academy, American School of Dubai, and the American School in Switzerland.
In this feature, hear about Max’s vision for his upcoming role at Taipei American School, plus the values and passions that inspire his professional career and personal pursuits.
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
A quote from the founder of The American School in Switzerland, Ms. Mary Crist Fleming: “Education is man[kind]’s best hope for a better world.”
Congratulations on your upcoming role at Taipei American School (TAS)! What are you excited about in this new role?
TAS has a strong academic tradition, very strong on the “how.” My hope is to contribute to the community also a sense of exploration of the “why.” In the end, our life’s journey is an adventure toward meaning and purpose.
Taipei American School
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the TAS community expect?
The overarching theme of my continuing research — and the silver-lining of my professional life in the office, classroom, workshops, and conferences — is the analysis, understanding, and application of ethics, integrity and wisdom in business decision-making.
Max scaling Piz Valdraus in Switzerland
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
Growing up in Switzerland, I developed a passion for mountains and snow. I am an avid mountaineer, but I also competed in ice hockey and ski racing. Even though my advancing age made me lose quite a few steps (hahaha), I still deeply enjoy all those activities (and like to think that I still give the young kids a run for their money!)
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
Working with ISS and Dr. Nadine Richards in particular was a pleasant experience. Dr. Richards was professional, timely and precise. Her support during all the steps of the process was flawless. She organized meetings, advised on subsequent steps, gave me pointers on emphasis needed. I would definitely recommend working with the team at ISS.
Congratulations and many thanks to Max for these reflections! You can connect on LinkedIn, Facebook, and the Transitions Without Borders website. Wishing Max and Melissa, his spouse of 36 years, the very best in this new chapter in Taipei!
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.