Leadership Spotlight: Simon Gillespie
ISS Leadership Search was honored to support the Director search for International School of Stavanger in Stavanger, Norway. Congratulations to Simon Gillespie, Ed.D. for accepting the position, beginning August 2025! Simon was most recently the Head of School at International School of Uganda.
Simon holds a Doctor of Education from Walden University, where he focused on the role of leadership in transforming the culture of international schools to be more inclusive of students with special learning needs. He also earned a Master of Arts in Educational Administration from California State University, and a Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education from the University of Alberta, Canada.
Simon’s career has taken him to Germany, the Philippines, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda. In his previous experiences, Simon has served as Director of The American School of Kinshasa; Elementary and Middle School Principal at International School Manila; and Primary Principal at the Dresden International School.
In this feature, learn about Simon’s journey into international education, his leadership philosophy, and his vision for fostering a positive, inclusive culture at the International School of Stavanger!
What drew you to pursue the world of education? And what drew you into international education specifically?
I have always valued the connections made with people, whether students or educators. We can learn so much from each other – early in my life, I had strong teachers who inspired me to live a life in education. As a family I had the opportunities to travel to different countries, which became a part of who I am – learning through interacting with other cultures and valuing our global community.
International School of Stavanger
Congratulations on your upcoming role at the International School of Stavanger! What are you excited about in this new role?
There is strong alignment between who I am as a leader and my experiences and the International School of Stavanger. There was a human side to the interactions I had during my visit which echo who I am as a leader. This excited me along with the beauty of Stavanger and the opportunity to explore a new country and culture. My hopes are to have an impact on student learning that inspires them to take action in their lives leading to more positivity and thoughtful change that is needed in the world.
Please tell us about your education philosophy and your leadership style. What can the community expect?
The most significant impact I have as a leader is on developing a positive culture through relationship building, listening for understanding, and continuous focus on strategic development. Trust is a key factor in building a community through clear and transparent communication and being inspirational.
My goal is for each student, parent, and staff member to feel a genuine sense of belonging through the intentional actions we take to grow as a community. I would like to continue and build on what ISS has already accomplished including the vision of responsible, globally engaged, empowered learners. Students need opportunities to take action, to innovate, and to apply their learning in different contexts to practice so they can thrive and respond to a constantly changing world.
Photo collection of learning and leadership in action: Top row, left to right: Hiring 2 individuals with Down Syndrome at ISU; Next Frontier Inclusion Team presenting at AS Dubai. Bottom row, left to right: ISU Leadership Team launching year of HOPE; Simon speaking at Graduation with sign language interpreter
What was your experience with ISS Leadership Search like?
The Head of School search process is emotional, demanding, and fun (at times). Having the expertise of consultants who understand the journey made the process manageable and personable. I felt known, I felt valued, and this support meant a lot to finding the right match. They knew the schools well that I was applying to and encouraged my application based on the alignment. I was able to speak freely and share questions I had to ensure I was making the best decision – and couldn’t be happier with the outcome!
Thank you ISS. 24 years ago, I attended my first ISS fair as a 25 year old teacher embarking on the international school world. I could not have imagined then that 24 years later, ISS would still be a big part of my career journey, supporting my leadership in international education.
Speaking at Graduation with Obama Foundation’s videos on representation
What is an interesting fact or story about you that you would like to share?
I have been passionate about inclusion throughout my career as a member of the design team for Next Frontier Inclusion supporting schools with being inclusive of students who learn differently. More recently we have been exploring concepts of belonging and the impact of diversity, equity and inclusion on our community.
One significant example was the power of representation. When our Class of 2022 graduate Jacob met President Obama in the White House when he was four, he asked him if “his hair was like his?” an iconic photograph was taken. “It is very wonderful to see representation in the government because if I get to see another black man be at the top, be at the pinnacle, then I want to follow that lead.”
I had the opportunity through a connection to the photographer Pete Souza to link with the Obama Foundation, which led to a zoom meeting with Jacob and the creation of an inspirational video which you can find online. Being able to add into my graduation speech a personalized video from President Obama himself to our graduates was a great add on to the experience.
Thank you to Simon for sharing your reflections with us. We wish Simon and his spouse Kelly Arndt a wonderful move and transition into their new community! We look forward to seeing Simon’s commitment to building relationships and fostering inclusion have a lasting impact at International School of Stavanger.
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.
Simon and Kelly, Christmas at home in Brugge