A new school year always brings a few new faces and plenty of new chapters. We welcome those joining the Saudi education community and congratulate those stepping up into new roles and well-deserved promotions.
With education across the Kingdom continuing to grow, strong leadership matters more than ever. It’s about knowing your community, supporting your people, keeping standards high and making sure schools continue to move forward alongside the ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030. We look forward to seeing what this year’s new and newly promoted leaders bring to the sector.
One World International School American Academy – Al Jazeera
Lisa Herrera – Principal
Lisa Herrera is an experienced education leader with a strong background in school leadership, academic development and teacher training across Saudi Arabia and the United States. Currently serving as Principal, she focuses on strengthening teaching quality and creating inclusive, student-centred learning environments. Her experience spans curriculum development, school improvement and supporting educators to achieve better outcomes for students.
International Indian Public School – Riyadh
J. Mumtaj Begum – Principal
J. Mumtaj Begum is the Principal of International Indian Public School, Riyadh, and a passionate education leader committed to shaping well-rounded individuals. She believes education goes beyond academic achievement, focusing on character, values, discipline and social responsibility. Through her leadership, she promotes a supportive learning environment where students are encouraged to learn, grow and realise their full potential.
British School Dhahran – Dhahran
Simon Fowler – Principal
Simon Fowler is the Principal of British School Dhahran, bringing over 23 years of experience in international education across Thailand, China and Taiwan. He has held senior leadership roles focused on school improvement, curriculum development, teacher development and student outcomes. A values-driven leader, Simon is passionate about creating strong learning communities and supporting students and educators to thrive.
ISG Dammam – Dammam
Ashley Barker – Principal
Ashley Barker is the Interim Principal of ISG Dammam, bringing more than 20 years of experience in public and international education across the United States, Shanghai and Bogotá. She has led school improvement initiatives focused on inclusive practices, instructional excellence and student development. Passionate about leadership development, Ashley promotes a culture of collaboration, trust and continuous learning for both students and educators.
ISG Jubail – Jubail
Kristin Kappelmann – Principal
Kristin Kappelmann is the Principal of ISG Jubail, bringing more than 20 years of experience in international education across East and Southeast Asia. She has held leadership roles including curriculum coordinator, elementary assistant principal and principal, with a strong focus on school improvement and community building. Her leadership centres on inclusive learning, professional development, strong relationships and creating supportive environments where every student can thrive.
Reigate Grammar School Riyadh
Karim Murcia – Executive Head Teacher
Karim Murcia is the Executive Headteacher of Reigate Grammar School Riyadh, bringing extensive experience in school leadership and educational development. He previously served as Founding Principal of Eden Girls School, Slough, and Principal and CEO at GEMS Education in Dubai. With a strong focus on academic excellence, pastoral care and continuous improvement, he leads RGS Riyadh in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Reigate Grammar School Riyadh – Riyadh
Pierre Scottorn – Head Of Senior School
Pierre Scottorn is the Incoming Head of Senior School at Reigate Grammar School Riyadh, bringing over 20 years of experience across the UK and Middle East. He has extensive expertise in educational leadership, school improvement and academic excellence. In his new role, he will support the senior school community while fostering high standards and positive student outcomes.
EtonHouse International Education Arabia
Anne Marie – Director Of Education
Anne-Marie Cottage is the Director of Education at EtonHouse International Education Arabia, bringing more than 17 years of experience across the UK and Middle East. She has extensive expertise in international education, school leadership and curriculum development. Known for her approachable leadership, she is passionate about building strong school communities where children thrive and families feel connected.
British International School Riyadh – Al Hamra
Lee Francis – Head Of Senior
Lee Francis is the Head of Senior at British International School Riyadh Al Hamra, with 27 years of teaching and leadership experience. He has held senior roles in the UK and internationally, including Principal and Head of Sixth Form, where he oversaw a cohort of 260 students. With a strong background in educational leadership, he brings broad experience and an internationally informed perspective to BISR.
British International School Riyadh – Al Hamra
Jamie McNamara – Head Of Primary
Jamie McNamara is the Head of Primary at British International School Riyadh Al Hamra, with over 18 years of experience in primary education across the UK, China and South Korea. He has held senior leadership roles including Deputy Head of Primary and Founding Primary Principal. His expertise spans literacy, curriculum development and school leadership, with a strong focus on creating engaging and supportive learning environments for students.
British International School Jeddah – Jeddah
Joanne Rice – Head Of Primary
Joanne Rice is the Head of Primary at British International School Jeddah, bringing more than 30 years of experience in education. She has extensive leadership experience across international schools in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, with expertise in primary education, curriculum development and assessment. Having previously served as Deputy Head at BISJ, she is committed to student-centred learning, innovation and building a strong school community.
Waad Academy – Jeddah
Soha Albehairi – Head Of School
Joanne Rice is the Head of Primary at British International School Jeddah, bringing more than 30 years of experience in education. She has extensive leadership experience across international schools in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia, with expertise in primary education, curriculum development and assessment. Having previously served as Deputy Head at BISJ, she is committed to student-centred learning, innovation and building a strong school community.
Jeddah Prep and Grammar School – Jeddah
Lian Gray – Assistant Head
Lian Gray is the Assistant Head at Jeddah Prep and Grammar School, bringing extensive experience in educational leadership and creative arts. With a background as a Head of Year and Art & Design specialist, he combines strong pastoral care with a focus on academic achievement. He is committed to safeguarding and holistic student development, helping pupils reach their full potential.
EtonHouse International
ISG Dammam
ISG Jubail
One World International School American Academy
Jeddah Prep and Grammar School
Waad Academy
If you hold a leadership position in KSA and have something to say, we’d love to hear from you. Education Saudi welcomes thought leadership pieces from across the sector; get in touch and share your perspective with the wider education community.
Further Reading
- Prince Sattam University Students Win Research And Innovation Awards Across Saudi Arabia And Beyond
- Misk Schools Graduates More Than 200 Students With 700 Tech Certificates