Head

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, "Thrive in a rapidly evolving world".

About the school

Educating over 400 pupils within a diverse international community, OBS offers an immersive German–English education from early years through to senior school, serving pupils from 3 months to 18 years. Its bilingual, academic provision combines the Swiss National Curriculum with international pathways, including the IB Diploma and Swiss Matura, all delivered within an innovative, purpose-built campus surrounded by beautiful countryside.

The school has developed a clear identity as a forward-looking, digitally enabled learning environment with strong Swiss roots and an international outlook. Its approach to education is enquiry-led and interdisciplinary, placing equal emphasis on academic achievement and the development of curiosity, creativity and resilience. A strong commitment to student wellbeing underpins the school’s culture, ensuring pupils are well-prepared for further education in Switzerland and internationally.

About the Role

OBS is seeking an experienced and entrepreneurial leader who combines academic credibility with strong commercial acumen. Fluency in German, alongside a sound understanding of the Swiss educational and cultural context, will be essential for success in the role. The successful candidate will lead the school’s next phase of development, ensuring continued educational quality while strengthening enrolment, market positioning and long-term sustainability in a competitive environment.

This is an exciting opportunity to lead a distinctive and well-established school at an important stage in its development, with meaningful scope to shape its future direction with support from the wider Cognita group.

How to apply

For this role, we are partnering with Odgers Berndtson to appoint the next Head of Obersee Bilingual School (OBS), Switzerland.

Closing date for applications: 09.00 BST, Wednesday 9 September, 2026.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.