Paul O'Donnell - Superintendent of Manarat Al Riyadh International Schools

We are pleased to announce that Mr. Paul O'Donnell has joined Maarif Company as the Superintendent of Manarat Al-Riyadh International School. With over twenty years of experience in international education leadership, Paul brings extensive expertise in strategic planning, change management, and academic excellence.

In his most recent role as Executive Principal at MADAC Academy in Madinah, Paul played a key role in developing and implementing a comprehensive strategic plan. He was behind the expanding of high school to cover all academic sections, HR, Finance, and Operations, while ensuring compliance with MOE and IBO accreditation standards. His leadership supported rigorous academic and financial audits and provided strategic advice to board committees and stakeholders.

Before his role in Saudi Arabia, Paul served as Director of Primary Schools at Institut Florimont in Geneva, Switzerland, where he led significant changes to align curricular delivery with institutional goals. He managed daily operations and a diverse team of academic and administrative staff.

Additionally, Paul was Principal of the International School at Institut Montana in Zug, Switzerland, where he led initiatives to enhance educational quality through strategic planning and operational excellence. His efforts in curriculum development and staff management greatly contributed to the school’s academic success.

Paul holds a master’s degree in educational leadership and management from the University of Bath, UK, and is a certified administrator and educator with the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO), reflecting his commitment to ongoing professional development and educational best practices.

We are excited to welcome Mr. Paul O'Donnell and look forward to benefiting from his strategic vision and leadership to foster collaborative work and drive organizational academic success.