Sharon Hague Named President of Pearson’s English Language Learning Division, Succeeding Gio Giovannelli

Sharon Hague Named President of Pearson’s English Language Learning Division, Succeeding Gio Giovannelli

(IN BRIEF) Pearson has promoted Sharon Hague to President of its English Language Learning (ELL) division, effective 3 March. Hague, a 25-year veteran of Pearson, will oversee the company’s expansion into key global markets and lead the development of AI-driven products for English language learners. She will continue to serve as the CEO for Pearson’s UK operations. Sharon succeeds Gio Giovannelli, who has chosen to leave the company. Sharon’s prior leadership in Pearson’s School Qualifications and School Assessments division has led to significant growth in international markets. Her appointment aligns with Pearson’s commitment to lifelong learning and its focus on innovative learning solutions.

(PRESS RELEASE) LONDON, 28-Feb-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Pearson, the global leader in lifelong learning, has announced the promotion of Sharon Hague to President of its English Language Learning (ELL) division, effective 3 March. The ELL division is renowned for providing English language assessments and educational materials to learners worldwide. In her new role, Sharon will report directly to Pearson CEO Omar Abbosh and will oversee the company’s expansion into key international markets. She will also spearhead the development of AI-powered products and services for learners globally, while continuing her duties as Pearson’s UK CEO, overseeing the company’s operations in the UK market. Sharon succeeds Gio Giovannelli, who has decided to leave Pearson to pursue new opportunities.

Sharon Hague, a veteran of 25 years with Pearson, brings a wealth of experience in leading high-performing global teams and driving substantial business growth. Before this appointment, Sharon served as Managing Director of Pearson School Qualifications and School Assessments, where she led the delivery of qualifications and assessments across multiple regions, including the US, UK, and internationally. Under her leadership, Pearson significantly increased its reach in school and K-12 qualifications, achieving consistent growth in sales and margins through digital transformation, international expansion, and operational improvements.

Omar Abbosh, Pearson’s CEO, praised Sharon’s contributions, stating, “Sharon has been pivotal in transforming our school qualifications and assessments, as well as our teaching and learning services. She is deeply committed to keeping learners and educators at the heart of everything we do. Her passion for lifelong learning and proven track record in driving growth through tech-driven solutions makes her the ideal leader for our ELL division.”

Abbosh also expressed gratitude to Gio Giovannelli for his 12 years of service, recognizing his significant impact on Pearson’s global presence. “Gio’s entrepreneurial vision helped establish Pearson’s strong position in numerous multinational markets, expanding our footprint and product portfolio. His dedication to language learning and skills development has positively impacted millions of lives worldwide,” Abbosh remarked.

Sharon Hague shared her enthusiasm for her new role: “As someone passionate about lifelong learning and with a background as an educator, I am excited to contribute my expertise to Pearson’s leadership team. I look forward to driving the continued success and growth of the ELL division and helping more people unlock opportunities through English language learning, which I believe can be life-changing both professionally and personally.”

Sharon holds a degree from Oxford, is a qualified teacher, and has taught in schools in Essex and Hertfordshire for eight years. She is also an elected representative on the Council of the UK Publishing Association and has previously chaired the Joint Council for Qualifications.

About Pearson
At Pearson, our purpose is simple: to help people realize the life they imagine through learning. We believe that every learning opportunity is a chance for a personal breakthrough. That’s why our c. 18,000 Pearson employees are committed to creating vibrant and enriching learning experiences designed for real-life impact. We are the world’s lifelong learning company, serving customers in nearly 200 countries with digital content, assessments, qualifications, and data. For us, learning isn’t just what we do. It’s who we are. Visit us at https://www.pearsonplc.com.

Media Contacts:
dan.nelson@pearson.com – US
laura.ewart@pearson.com – UK

SOURCE: Pearson