Director of Educational Technology & Digital Pedagogy — Progressive K-12 International School, Seoul, South Korea

About the Role

This pivotal role seeks an experienced leader to drive the strategic integration of educational technology and digital pedagogies throughout a progressive K-12 international school in Seoul. The Director will be responsible for shaping the school's digital learning vision, ensuring that technology enhances teaching, learning, and assessment across all grade levels. This is more than an IT management position; it requires a deep understanding of pedagogy and how digital tools can transform learning experiences, making them more engaging, personalized, and effective. The ideal candidate will be a visionary educator who can inspire staff, students, and parents to embrace technological advancements responsibly and effectively.

Working within a vibrant international community, the Director will collaborate closely with academic leadership, department heads, and teachers to identify needs, implement solutions, and provide ongoing professional development. This position suits an innovative educational technologist with a strong background in curriculum design and teacher training, who thrives in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment. You will be instrumental in ensuring the school remains at the forefront of educational innovation, preparing students for a rapidly evolving global landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a comprehensive K-12 educational technology and digital pedagogy strategic plan.
• Lead the selection, integration, and evaluation of educational software, hardware, and digital learning platforms.
• Design and deliver professional development programs for faculty on effective technology integration and innovative teaching methods.
• Support teachers in developing and implementing engaging blended and online learning experiences.
• Oversee the management and optimization of the school's Learning Management System (LMS) and other digital tools.
• Champion digital citizenship, online safety, and responsible technology use among students and staff.
• Manage the educational technology budget and resources effectively.
• Stay abreast of emerging educational technologies and pedagogical trends to inform school-wide practices.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Master's degree in Educational Technology, Instructional Design, Education, or a related field.
• Minimum 5-7 years of experience in educational technology leadership within a K-12 setting, preferably international.
• Proven track record of successful technology integration projects and professional development delivery.
• Strong understanding of various LMS platforms (e.g., Canvas, ManageBac, Google Classroom) and educational software.
• Experience with international curricula (e.g., IB, AP, A-Levels) and their technological applications.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Fluency in English is essential; Korean language skills are an advantage.

Salary & Benefits

The salary for this senior leadership role is competitive and reflects the high cost of living and quality of life in Seoul. Typical annual compensation for a Director of this calibre at an international school in South Korea ranges from ₩90,000,000 to ₩130,000,000 KRW, depending on experience and qualifications.

Beyond the attractive base salary, comprehensive benefits packages are standard. These often include fully furnished housing or a substantial housing allowance, annual return flights to your home country, global health insurance for the employee and dependents, tuition fee reductions for dependent children, a professional development budget, and an end-of-service gratuity. Some schools also offer relocation allowances and settlement support to ensure a smooth transition.

What a Typical Day Looks Like

A typical day might begin with reviewing analytics from the school's LMS to gauge student engagement with digital resources, followed by a meeting with the Head of Secondary to discuss the rollout of a new VR-enhanced science curriculum module. Later, you might lead a professional development session for primary teachers on using interactive whiteboards effectively in their classrooms, offering practical tips and troubleshooting. The afternoon could involve collaborating with the IT department on network infrastructure improvements for new EdTech tools, followed by a strategic planning session with the school's leadership team to refine the digital learning roadmap for the next academic year. Your day balances hands-on support, strategic planning, and continuous learning.

Career Growth & Outlook

The demand for skilled educational technology leaders in international schools, particularly in tech-savvy regions like East Asia, continues to grow exponentially. This role provides an excellent platform for further career progression, potentially leading to positions such as Assistant Head of School (Academics), Deputy Head, or even Head of School, particularly for those with strong leadership and pedagogical foundations. The skills gained in strategic planning, change management, and faculty development are highly transferable.

Professionals in this field are increasingly sought after not just in K-12 education, but also in higher education and EdTech companies, offering diverse pathways. The experience of implementing cutting-edge technology in a cross-cultural environment like Seoul significantly enhances a candidate's global marketability.

How to Apply

Prospective candidates should prepare a detailed CV highlighting relevant experience in educational technology leadership, curriculum integration, and professional development. A compelling cover letter outlining your vision for digital pedagogy and how your skills align with a progressive international school's mission is crucial. Include contact information for at least three professional referees, including your current direct supervisor. Search for openings on reputable international education job boards, school websites, and through specialist recruitment agencies. Early applications are often prioritized.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the school's approach to technology? A: The school prides itself on a progressive approach, viewing technology not as a standalone subject, but as an integral tool to enhance learning across the curriculum. They focus on fostering digital literacy, critical thinking, and creativity through responsible and innovative tech integration.

Q: Are there opportunities for personal professional development? A: Absolutely. The school is committed to continuous learning and allocates a generous budget for professional development. This includes attending international EdTech conferences, pursuing further certifications, or participating in workshops that align with the school's strategic goals and your professional growth.

Q: What is the typical student-to-device ratio? A: The school typically operates a 1:1 device program across most grade levels, ensuring students have consistent access to technology for learning. This allows for seamless integration of digital resources and personalized learning experiences.

Q: What is the support structure like for this role? A: You will lead a small team of EdTech specialists or coordinators and work closely with the IT department for infrastructure and technical support. You will report directly to the Head of School or Deputy Head, integrating fully into the academic leadership team and influencing school-wide strategy.