Pearson, the world's learning company, today announces that John Fallon has informed the Board of his intention to retire from his role as Chief Executive. To ensure an orderly transition, John will retire in 2020 once a successor has been appointed. A succession process, led by the Chair Sidney Taurel, will consider external and internal candidates.

Sidney Taurel, Chair of Pearson, said: "In some very challenging markets, John has worked tirelessly leading Pearson through a period of significant change and led its transformation from a media conglomerate to a single focused learning company. Under John's leadership Pearson has become a simpler, more digital focused business underpinned by a stronger balance sheet and better positioned to deliver a sustainable and healthy future. The Board and I are grateful for John's significant contribution."

John Fallon, Chief Executive of Pearson, said: "There's a lot still to do but we're making good progress in navigating Pearson through a period of huge change. We're now a much more efficient company, able to innovate more quickly and scale globally. We are investing more in our business than ever before and pioneering new forms of online education that link learning to employability. Over 75% of the company is now growing, as we work our way through a major industry wide disruption in the other 25% of Pearson - US Higher Education Courseware. All of Pearson is now very well placed to meet the need for affordable and effective learning. I am deeply grateful for the commitment and dedication of my colleagues as we continue to help millions more learners prosper through a lifetime of learning.

"We're now at the stage where it's time to transition to a new leader, who can bring a fresh perspective. As the Board works on my succession, I will continue to be completely committed to leading the company through this major transformation."

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This announcement contains inside information.

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