Montessori Academy Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Montessori Academy has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, marketing, operations, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to early childhood development, Montessori Academy provides an exceptional learning experience that fosters curiosity and nurtures natural talents, partnering with families from birth to age six to guide each child's journey.

Leadership Roles at Montessori Academy

  • Founder & Chief Executive Officer - Colette Assaf
  • Chief Operating Officer - Rami Nassif
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Michaela Rath-May
  • Chief People Officer - Shelly Li
  • Colette Assaf - Founder & Chief Executive Officer

    Colette Assaf, the Founder & Chief Executive Officer at Montessori Academy, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the organization. Assaf guides the company's mission to deliver excellence in early childhood education, ensuring each student receives an exceptional learning experience that cultivates curiosity and develops natural talents. Overseeing the strategic direction, Assaf ensures the partnership model with parents is robust, supporting child development from birth to age six. This leadership role involves integrating world-class Montessori education with a personalized, family-feel daycare environment. Colette Assaf drives the continuous improvement of educational methodologies and facility standards across all locations. The Founder & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the company's core values, fostering a culture of dedication to the child's developmental journey. Assaf's focus remains on maintaining the highest standards of care and education, solidifying Montessori Academy's reputation as a leader in the Australian childcare sector.

    Rami Nassif - Chief Operating Officer

    Rami Nassif, the Chief Operating Officer at Montessori Academy, manages the day-to-day operational execution and service delivery. Nassif ensures the seamless integration of world-class education and excellent facilities across all academy locations, upholding the company's commitment to providing an exceptional learning experience. Overseeing operational efficiency, Rami Nassif guarantees that the personalized, family-feel daycare service complements the rigorous Montessori curriculum. This role involves optimizing processes to support child development from birth to age six, ensuring every child's natural talents and abilities are encouraged. The Chief Operating Officer drives the implementation of best practices in childcare and education, aligning operations with the company's mission of excellence. Nassif's responsibilities include managing resources, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, and fostering a supportive environment for both students and staff. Rami Nassif's leadership ensures the consistent delivery of high-quality care and education, reinforcing the academy's reputation as a trusted partner for families.
    Rami Nassif

    Michaela Rath-May - Chief Marketing Officer

    Michaela Rath-May, the Chief Marketing Officer at Montessori Academy, spearheads all marketing and brand initiatives. Rath-May develops and executes strategies to communicate the academy's unique value proposition, emphasizing its role as more than just an educational childcare service but a partner in a child's development journey. Overseeing brand positioning, Rath-May ensures the message of excellence in early childhood education resonates with prospective families across Australia. This leadership function involves driving awareness of the academy's world-class facilities and educational programs, combined with its personalized, family-feel approach. Michaela Rath-May directs campaigns that highlight the company's commitment to fostering curiosity and nurturing natural talents from birth to age six. The Chief Marketing Officer analyzes market trends to identify opportunities for growth and engagement, ensuring the Montessori Academy brand remains synonymous with quality and personalized care. Rath-May's efforts are critical in expanding the academy's reach and reinforcing its dedication to supporting families every step of the way.

    Shelly Li - Chief People Officer

    Shelly Li, the Chief People Officer at Montessori Academy, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies. Li cultivates a positive and professional work environment that supports the company's mission of excellence in early childhood education. Overseeing recruitment and retention, Shelly Li ensures the academy attracts and retains highly qualified educators and staff who are dedicated to nurturing children's curiosity and natural talents. This critical role involves developing comprehensive training programs that align with Montessori principles and the company's commitment to personalized, family-feel daycare. The Chief People Officer champions employee development, fostering a culture where staff feel valued and empowered to contribute to the child's developmental journey from birth to age six. Shelly Li drives initiatives that enhance employee engagement and well-being, ensuring the team embodies the academy's dedication to providing world-class education. Li's strategic focus on people operations is fundamental to maintaining the high standards of care and educational delivery at Montessori Academy.
    Shelly Li

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Montessori Academy Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Montessori Academy?
    Montessori Academy is led by Colette Assaf (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Rami Nassif (Chief Operating Officer) and Michaela Rath-May (Chief Marketing Officer).
    Who is part of Montessori Academy’s executive team?
    The executive team of Montessori Academy includes leaders such as Colette Assaf (Founder & Chief Executive Officer), Rami Nassif (Chief Operating Officer), Michaela Rath-May (Chief Marketing Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Montessori Academy have?
    Montessori Academy has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Montessori Academy’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Montessori Academy includes roles such as Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Marketing Officer, Chief People Officer.