An interview with CEO, Greg Parry on “Leading with impact in the New Year” He describes an important call to educational leadership in 2024
As the dawn of a new year emerges, educational leaders find themselves at a crucial juncture, reflecting on their roles not only as administrators but as catalysts for profound impact. The pursuit of leadership, in this context, transcends the conventional metrics of success, shifting the focus towards the enduring influence leaders have on the lives of students, educators, and the broader educational community. Drawing inspiration from the principles of impactful leadership, this reflective journey encompasses not just personal achievements but the transformational effect leaders can have in the world of education.
At the helm of educational innovation, leaders like Greg Parry, the esteemed CEO, and Co-Founder of Global Services in Education, stand as beacons of impactful leadership. Parry’s commitment to shaping the global educational landscape serves as a testament to the transformative power leaders wield beyond the confines of traditional success metrics. In the upcoming year, leaders can draw inspiration from such figures, recognising that their legacy is not just about organisational achievements but the lives they touch and the positive change they instigate.

“Educational leadership is inherently multifaceted, extending beyond the walls of administrative offices into the very fabric of student and teacher experiences. As leaders contemplate their journey into the new year, the emphasis must shift from personal success to the profound impact they can make on the educational journey of others. Success, when measured by its impact, takes on a new dimension, becoming a reflection of the positive change leaders bring to the academic community.”
“In the fast-paced realm of educational leadership, the pursuit of success remains vital. However, the narrative transforms when we understand that success, devoid of impact, becomes an ephemeral achievement. It is the lasting influence on the lives of students, the professional growth of teachers, and the overall enhancement of the educational ecosystem that defines genuine success and leading with impact in the new year.”
“As we embark on a new year, the call to educational leaders is clear – embrace the idea that leadership success is not a stand-alone accomplishment but an outcome of the lasting impact on the educational landscape. The essence lies in fostering an environment where students thrive academically, teachers find fulfillment in their roles, and the community benefits from a robust educational framework.”
“The motivational principles underlined here speak to the transitory nature of material success. When we are on our deathbeds, the accumulated wealth, power, and prestige become inconsequential. The paramount consideration becomes the impact we had on the lives of others. In the realm of education, this sentiment resonates profoundly. The enduring legacies are the students inspired, the educators empowered, and the communities enriched by the positive changes initiated by leaders.”
“Educational leaders shoulder the responsibility of sculpting the future. This responsibility extends beyond the traditional realms of curriculum and academia into character development, resilience building, and fostering a lifelong love for learning. In setting intentions for the new year, leaders must commit to making decisions that maximize their positive impact on the educational journey of those they serve.”
“While success remains a laudable pursuit, it is imperative to recognize that it is not an end unto itself. Genuine success in educational leadership contributes to the overarching mission of creating an environment where students flourish, educators excel, and communities prosper. The essence mirrors this understanding – life is a mirror, reflecting not just what we desire but who we are.”
“The mirror of life, in the context of education, reflects the values, principles, and ethos instilled in educational institutions. It reflects the compassion extended to students facing challenges, the support offered to educators striving for professional growth, and the collaborative spirit fostered within the school community.
“The educational leadership journey mirrors the cyclical nature of life – a continuous cycle of learning, growth, and evolution. Just as a newborn’s cry signifies the beginning of life, the actions and decisions of leaders echo across time, shaping the legacy they leave behind.”
“As educational leaders contemplate the impact they aspire to have in the new year, they must recognize that the effect they have on others is the most valuable currency they possess. In the educational landscape, this currency translates into empowered students becoming catalysts for positive change, inspired teachers shaping future leaders, and communities thriving on the foundation of quality education. Leading with impact needs to start with self and is measured by the consequential positive behaviours taken on by others.”
Greg Parry, GSE Co-Founder and CEO
Let the new year be a canvas upon which educational leaders paint a narrative of impact, inspiration, and transformation. May leadership in the new year be defined not by titles but by the lives touched and the positive change instigated. As educational leaders, the power to shape the future lies in making impactful decisions, fostering meaningful change, and leaving an enduring legacy. Here’s to a new year of purposeful leadership, meaningful impact, and the profound difference made in the lives of those served in the realm of education. Leading with impact can create sustainable change where it most matters.

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About GSE
Global Services in Education plans and opens international schools for investors, developers and governments, and manages them once they are running. 39 school projects delivered across 16 countries. Management agreements run a minimum of ten years.
The company was founded in 2011 by Greg Parry and Shanna Parry.