Lara Manasfi brings over 25 years of experience in international education, with a leadership career spanning Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. She has served as an elementary principal, director of strategic initiatives, and regional advisor, leading major efforts in curriculum transitions, accreditation, communications, and school improvement. Known for her collaborative approach and commitment to inclusive, high-quality education, Lara has helped schools build systems that are mission-aligned, data-informed, and deeply responsive to student and community needs.
Lara has held senior leadership positions in Dhaka, Johor, and Yangon, and played a key role in the launch and development of a new international school campus in South Korea. Her experience includes guiding schools through curriculum transitions, leading WASC self-studies and accreditation visits, and redesigning communications strategies to strengthen school identity and stakeholder engagement. She has also advised leadership teams in Central Africa on alumni relations, internal systems, and strategic messaging.
In addition to her school-based leadership, Lara currently serves as the Africa Schools Coordinator for the Learning Analytics Collaborative (LAC), where she supports schools across the region in using data to drive teaching and learning. She is also an active WASC accreditation chair and team member, providing guidance on school evaluation, strategic alignment, and capacity building.
At Search Associates, Lara supports schools around the world with all aspects of membership and recruitment, including onboarding, supported searches, and day-to-day consultation. She is known for her clear communication, systems thinking, and deep understanding of what international schools need to thrive.
Lara is based in Kinshasa, DRC. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new places, visiting family around the world, spending time in nature, and pretending to help in the kitchen while her husband does the cooking—simple rituals that bring balance and joy to a globally connected life.
