Edward James Gay
Tour Director / Cultural Educator
Berlin
Summary
U.S. American with academic training in Germany and many years of experience as a university lecturer and secondary school teacher. Known for educational leadership, cross-cultural communication, and subject expertise in the humanities and social sciences.
Overview
31
31
years of professional experience
4025
4025
years of post-secondary education
2
2
Languages
Work History
Tour Director
Various Tour Operators
01.1995 - Current
- Designed and led multi-country tours for American travelers, delivering historically rich and culturally immersive experiences.
- Managed all logistics including accommodations, transportation, dining, and vendor coordination.
- Provided commentary on European history, politics, and culture tailored to diverse audiences.
- Resolved unexpected issues calmly and efficiently, including travel delays and group conflicts.
- Acted as cultural liaison, facilitating meaningful cross-cultural experiences and understanding.
- Earned repeat bookings and referrals through attentive service and knowledgeable guidance.
IH Certificate in Teaching German
International House World Organization Assessment Unit
11.2025 - 11.2025
- Completed a four-week intensive training program combining teaching theory and classroom practice.
- Designed and delivered structured German lessons to real learners at beginner and intermediate levels.
- Gained hands-on experience in classroom management, error correction, and student engagement techniques.
- Received detailed feedback from experienced observers and course trainers on teaching performance and lesson planning.
- Demonstrated ability to apply didactic methods in live teaching situations with diverse learner groups.
English Language Trainer for Business Professionals
Hoffmann und Partner Executive Search
09.2022 - 12.2023
- Delivered customized English training for HR professionals in talent development and recruitment.
- Focused on communication strategies to enhance engagement with English-speaking business partners.
- Strengthened participants' communicative competence for international business interactions.
Secondary School Teacher of English, History, and Political Science
Max-Planck-Gymnasium
08.2019 - 06.2022
- Taught grades 7–12 in English, History, and Politics.
- Organized extracurricular activities with educational objectives across Berlin.
- Served as deputy homeroom teacher.
Business English Trainer
Kienbaum and Partner Consultants International
02.2018 - 06.2019
- Provided English instruction tailored to recruitment professionals.
- Emphasis on vocabulary, strategy, and intercultural communication.
Teacher of Social Studies, History, and English
Kooperationsschule Friesack
08.2017 - 07.2018
- Taught interdisciplinary subjects with attention to students’ individual needs.
- Supported the school’s unique educational mission.
Specialist Teacher at a Vocational School
AGUS/GADAT Vocational School
11.2015 - 07.2017
- Taught civic education for aspiring social and educational professionals.
- Educated students on active participation in the economic, political, and social life of Germany.
Lecturer in Business English
Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR)
02.2007 - 10.2015
- Developed and taught English courses in Marketing, Management, Finance, Accounting, and International Business.
Lecturer in Social Science
Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, University of Erfurt
09.2012 - 06.2014
- Conducted English-language seminars for international students on the history of economic thought.
Education
Magister Artium (M.A.) - History And Philosophy
Humboldt University of Berlin
Bachelor of Arts - History and English
University of Mississippi
Oxford, MississippiDoctorate (Rerum Politicarum) - Political Science
University of Erfurt
Skills
Logistics
Personal Information
- Place of Birth: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
- Date of Birth: 09/25/67
- Nationality: USA
- Driving License: Class B
Hobbies / Interests
Music (guitar, singing, composition), sports (fitness, cycling, badminton), American pro football, politics, history, culture, travel
Timeline
IH Certificate in Teaching German
International House World Organization Assessment Unit
11.2025 - 11.2025
English Language Trainer for Business Professionals
Hoffmann und Partner Executive Search
09.2022 - 12.2023
Secondary School Teacher of English, History, and Political Science
Max-Planck-Gymnasium
08.2019 - 06.2022
Business English Trainer
Kienbaum and Partner Consultants International
02.2018 - 06.2019
Teacher of Social Studies, History, and English
Kooperationsschule Friesack
08.2017 - 07.2018
Specialist Teacher at a Vocational School
AGUS/GADAT Vocational School
11.2015 - 07.2017
Lecturer in Social Science
Willy Brandt School of Public Policy, University of Erfurt
09.2012 - 06.2014
Lecturer in Business English
Berlin School of Economics and Law (HWR)
02.2007 - 10.2015
Tour Director
Various Tour Operators
01.1995 - Current
Bachelor of Arts - History and English
University of Mississippi
Magister Artium (M.A.) - History And Philosophy
Humboldt University of Berlin
Doctorate (Rerum Politicarum) - Political Science
University of Erfurt
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