About Richard Massel
Richard Massel (professionally known as Rick Massel) is a strategic executive with over 20 years of experience bridging the gap between institutional leadership and digital innovation.
His career has evolved from leading large-scale educational operations in New York City to managing enterprise SaaS deployments for global technology firms. Today, he operates at the intersection of human systems and AI, helping organizations navigate complex digital transitions.
Educational Leadership & NYC Operations
Before transitioning to the technology sector, Richard spent nearly two decades with the New York City Department of Education. His tenure focused on operational turnaround, data governance, and crisis management in high-stakes environments.
Key leadership roles included:
- Principal, Monroe Academy of Visual Arts & Design: Led academic and operational strategy for an inner-city high school, managing a budget of over $4.1M and overseeing a staff of 60+.
- System-Wide Data Architecture: While serving as Principal, Richard simultaneously architected regional data operations tracking 350,000+ users across 450 sites, ensuring compliance and resource equity across the network.
- International Leadership: Following his time in NYC, Richard served as a school director in Angola, India, and China, managing American curriculum implementation in diverse cultural contexts.
Global Perspective & Endurance
Richard's leadership philosophy is heavily influenced by his experiences as an endurance athlete and global traveler. He believes that navigating complex business transitions requires the same resilience as navigating difficult terrain.
- Expedition Travel: Has visited over 60 countries, gaining a first-hand perspective on global economic and educational systems.
- Endurance Athletics: An avid cyclist and trekker, Richard has successfully summited Mount Kilimanjaro and completed extensive treks through the Himalayas.
Current Focus: The Future of Work
Currently, Richard applies his background in "human systems" to the world of Artificial Intelligence. As the author of The Future is Fiction, he explores how sci-fi narratives can help leaders anticipate the ethical and structural challenges of the AI age.
He is an active contributor to Data Driven Investor and Towards AI, where he writes about the mechanics of thinking and the leadership skills required for a generative future.
Education
- M.S. School Administration & Supervision – Touro College, Graduate School of Education and Psychology
- B.A. History – Boston University, College of Arts and Sciences