Pauline O'Brien

Pauline O'Brien, a visionary leader and accomplished professional, boasts a diverse background in both international education and industry recruiting.

As the ISS Director of Business Strategy & Development, Global Recruitment, she impacts the sector, particularly in school leadership and teacher recruitment realms.

Prior to this, Pauline excelled in business, recruiting top executives for international companies. Her experience contributed significantly to her strategic acumen, enhancing her ability to identify and attract superior talent to educational institutions.

Her desire to empower school communities led her to join the Council of International Schools (CIS). Hired to drive strategic change in recruitment, her innovative strategies professionalized and streamlined processes, ensuring suitable and qualified educators foster excellence and growth.

Deeply committed to mentorship and advocacy, Pauline invests energy in guiding coaches, igniting passion, and nurturing career aspirations in leaders and teachers.

An influential voice for women in leadership, she champions initiatives breaking barriers and fostering diversity within these settings. Her presence as a speaker at regional conferences significantly advances this vital agenda globally. An advocate for women's advancement in leadership, Pauline supports the ISS Mary Anne Haas Women’s Symposium and participates in the ECIS Women in Leadership Special Interest Group. She consistently works towards creating opportunities for women to excel and lead in education. Her expertise and insights are recognized in books like "100% Braver" and "Raise Her Up."

As Chair of the Recruitment, Regulations, and Reporting Committee for the International Task Force for Child Protection (ITFCP), she leads in championing comprehensive safeguarding protocols in schools. Her leadership underscores a commitment to safer environments, ensuring robust measures protect children's well-being.

Pauline's passion extends beyond professional commitments. An avid fundraiser for cancer research, she contributes to making a difference for those affected by the disease. She also actively participates in a project preserving the social history of the Docklands in the UK and Ireland. Her leadership in organizing community events fosters engagement and nurtures togetherness, continuing to inspire and impact lives meaningfully.