International Expansion in Education with Dr. Mark Abell

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Dr. Mark Abell joins host Monde Nkosi to unpack the dynamics of international expansion in education. Mark explains why and how schools and universities venture abroad, highlighting the differences between for-profit and non-profit models and the key factors that separate successful expansions from failed ones. Mark also shares some personal reflections on his journey and pays a heartfelt tribute to teachers who have profoundly shaped his life.

Mark is a highly regarded international lawyer with over 40 years’ experience in international education. He currently acts as a consultant to a number of well-known educational institutions on the development and implementation of their international expansion strategies. Until 2022, Mark was Global Head of International Education and Franchising at the global law firm Bird & Bird. He has advised over 80 independent schools on international expansion including the likes of Westminster, North London Collegiate, Wellington College and Dulwich; as well as universities such as Oxford, Cambridge and Surrey. Mark has authored 13 books, including Educational Institutions – A Legal and Regulatory Handbook for Setting Up Overseas. Mark holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Southampton and a PhD from the University of London.
Chapters
  • 00:01 Introduction to the Education Investment Podcast
  • 01:15 Introduction of Dr. Mark Abel
  • 02:46 Mark's Background and Journey
  • 13:58 Mark's Personal Life and Interests
  • 16:07 The Scope of International Education Expansion
  • 23:40 Source Countries and Target Markets
  • 30:32 School Brands and Their Appeal
  • 32:46 Structural Challenges of International Expansion
  • 46:43 Operational Control and Partnerships
  • 51:56 Future Trends and Innovations
  • 59:19 Personal Impact and Conclusion
9 Sep English South Africa Education · Investing

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