Pearson Taps Microsoft Veteran Omar Abbosh As Next CEO

Author: Nabaparna Bhattacharya | September 20, 2023 07:25am

Pearson, Plc (NYSE:PSO) appointed Omar Abbosh as its new Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, effective early 2024. 

Omar Abbosh will succeed Andy Bird, who has decided to retire as CEO of Pearson.

Abbosh is the President of Microsoft Corporation's (NASDAQ:MSFT) Industry Solutions business with direct responsibility for driving sales, service, and solutions across the software giant's most significant global customers.

Before Microsoft, Abbosh spent three decades at Accenture Plc (NYSE:ACN) in numerous senior leadership roles, including the Chief Executive of the global Communications, Technology, and Media business. 

Also Read: Pearson Divests International Online Program Management Business To Regent

Abbosh also serves as a member of the Board of Zuora, Inc. (NYSE:ZUO).

Abbosh will get a base salary of £1 million ($1.24 million), Pearson said in a statement.

"We are well positioned for future growth with a clear vision and a strong management team to deliver it. I am confident that Omar has the right skillset and experience to take Pearson forward", current CEO Bird said.

The latest appointment follows a shareholder revolt over Bird's pay ($11 million) and amid concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on the business, according to a report by Bloomberg. 

Price Action: PSO shares are trading lower by 2.29% to $10.68 premarket on the last check Wednesday.

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