Founding Head of School for Dwight School Cairo

We are thrilled to be supporting Dwight Schools and the Al Futtaim Education Foundation (AFEF) with the appointment of a Founding Head of School for Dwight School Cairo – the latest addition to the highly successful global Dwight network.

Dwight is a pioneering family of schools committed to igniting the spark of genius in every child. Founded in New York City in 1872, Dwight has grown into a global family with campuses in London, Seoul, Shanghai, Dubai, Hanoi, and a top-ranked online school, Dwight Global. Dwight School Cairo is being launched in partnership with AFEF – a dynamic, not-for-profit organisation working to transform education across the MENA region. AFEF provides strategic and academic governance to its schools, championing innovation, cultural heritage, and community-focused initiatives. It currently oversees two respected Dubai schools: Deira International School and Universal American School.

Bringing together Dwight’s global expertise in IB-led, personalised education and AFEF’s regional leadership, Dwight School Cairo will be a landmark institution. Opening in September 2026 on a state-of-the-art 40,000 sqm campus in New Cairo, the school will launch with Pre-K to Grade 5 and grow to serve up to 1,700 students. It will offer the full IB continuum and, in line with Dwight’s global model, prioritise student voice, creativity, and global engagement.

This is a rare opportunity for a visionary leader to shape a major new international school, backed by two globally respected institutions. The successful candidate will build the school’s culture, team, and reputation from the ground up – establishing Dwight Cairo as a flagship for educational excellence in the region.

The ideal candidate will feel a deep alignment with the vision and values of Dwight, AFEF, and the IB. A strategic thinker and communicator, they will build community, inspire confidence, and lead by example. They must bring emotional intelligence, cultural sensitivity, and global perspective, along with a strong track record as a Head or Principal. First-hand experience of the IB is essential; start-up experience is a plus.

An application pack can be downloaded via the link below.

For a discreet, informal conversation about this opportunity please reach out to Shriti Lodha at shriti.lodha@odgers.com.

The deadline for receipt of applications is Monday 4 August, however candidates will be interviewed on a rolling basis and are encouraged to apply early.