John Joseph Fallon (born August 1962) is a British businessman. He was the chief executive officer (CEO) of Pearson plc from 2013, succeeding Marjorie Scardino, until 2020. Pearson is one of the world's largest education brands.
John Fallon | |
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Born | John Joseph Fallon August 1962 (age 61) |
Education | University of Hull |
Occupation | Business executive |
Title | CEO, Pearson plc |
Term | 2013-2020[1] |
Predecessor | Marjorie Scardino |
Children | 2 daughters |
John Joseph Fallon was born in August 1962.[2][3] He graduated from the University of Hull in 1983, with a bachelor's degree in economics, politics and sociology.[4]
Fallon started his career as a researcher for Labour politician John Prescott in 1988.[5] He was the director of corporate affairs at Powergen, now known as E.ON UK, from 1992 to 1997.[3]
He became the director of communications of Pearson in 1997.[3] He was on the board of directors of Interactive Data Corporation from 2000 to 2007.[4] In 2010, he became the international education chief executive.[5] He has been the CEO of Pearson since 2013, replacing Marjorie Scardino.[5] In 2013, he decided to close the adult education unit in the UK, Pearson in Practice, which provided apprenticeships to put adults back to work, as it was unprofitable.[6] Fallon undertook a significant restructuring during his tenure at the head of Pearson.[7]
Fallon announced plans to retire in 2020 after a successor had been appointed.[1] Andy Bird was selected as the new CEO, he took over on 19 October.[needs update][8] Fallon remains an advisor to Pearson.
Fallon is married and has two daughters.[5]