GISSV is seeking a dynamic and highly organized General Manager (Beauftragter des Vorstands) to oversee the school's daily non-pedagogical operations. Working in close coordination with the Head of School, the General Manager (Beauftragter des Vorstandes)  will ensure that all non-pedagogical processes run smoothly and efficiently, and that all business functions are aligned with the school’s strategy. 

This role also serves as a vital link between the board of directors, school leadership, and administrative teams, contributing significantly to the school’s operational excellence and strategic development. In this position you will be working in a multicultural, mission-driven school community and help shape the strategic direction of a unique international school in the Bay Area.

Essential Functions

As the General Manager (Beauftragter des Vorstands), you will:

• Manage all aspects of the day-to-day operations of GISSV in close cooperation with the Head of School
• Develop the school administration including defining structure and processes of administration for GISSV.
• Coordinate strategic planning efforts and oversee board-approved projects (e.g., campus development, investments, statute updates).
• Lead financial planning and business controlling, in coordination with the Treasurer and the finance team.
• Collaborate closely with the Head of School, administration, and board committees to ensure alignment and implementation of board directives.
• Prepare board documents and Society Meeting logistics in cooperation with the Chair of the Board.
• Oversee contracts and ensure budget compliance, within defined limits of board approval.
• Represent GISSV in interactions with U.S. regulatory bodies and partner institutions.
• Support collaboration with other German international schools worldwide, especially on administrative best practices.
• Work closely with engaged volunteer leaders and an experienced educational team
• Act as a liaison between the Board of Directors and the school’s Leadership, Administrative teams, and Parent Associations. 
• Participate in all board meetings (non-voting) and advise on policy and governance matters.

What you bring

• Minimum of 10 years in senior leadership roles within educational institutions in California. 
• Preferred experience as a Head of School, Head of Administration, or Chief Operating Officer in an California Independent School context.
• Proven track record of operational oversight, strategic planning, and successful execution of large-scale projects (e.g., capital campaigns, campus development).
• Ability to align with the Board’s long-term goals and translate strategic vision into operational roadmaps.
• Ability to align with and support the operational consequences of the HoS's pedagogical decisions and staffing plans.
• Experience managing cross-functional teams and leading schools through growth, transition, and complex change.
• Capacity to interface effectively with governance structures, including reporting, compliance, and fiduciary accountability.
• Deep knowledge of school finance, human resources, legal frameworks (especially in California contexts), non-profits, vendor and facility management.
• Experience overseeing real estate negotiations and infrastructure planning is highly desired.
• Experience representing an organization in corporate or political settings is of advantage.
• High intercultural competence and the ability to lead within a multilingual and multinational community.
• Leadership style that is collaborative, transparent, mission-aligned, and rooted in integrity and resilience.
  
  

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States for any employer. GISSV is not able to sponsor visas or work permits for this position.

FLSA Classification: Exempt (full-time)
Location: On campus in Mountain View, CA with travel to the San Francisco campus as needed
Annual Salary: $170-200,000 depending on experience
Reports to: Board of Directors