Pearson CEO: Get on With Business as Usual Post-Brexit

The transcript discusses the implications of Brexit on Britain's economy and Pearson's business strategy. It highlights Pearson's focus on maintaining business as usual, emphasizing the importance of welcoming international students and staying connected with the European research community. The financial stability of Pearson is addressed, noting the company's strong position despite Brexit uncertainties. Challenges such as competition with Amazon and the shift to digital education are also explored.

What is emphasized as crucial for Britain post-Brexit in the initial reactions?

• Reducing research collaborations

• Maintaining an open and market-driven approach

• Closing borders to international students

• Focusing solely on domestic markets

How does Pearson view its financial position in light of Brexit?

• Uncertain and unstable

• Weak and vulnerable

• Dependent on European markets

• Strong with a solid balance sheet

What is the recommended approach for British companies in response to Brexit?

• Speculate on future outcomes

• Withdraw from international markets

• Panic and relocate immediately

• Remain calm and avoid overreaction

What is Pearson's strategy to address competition from companies like Amazon?

• Focus on physical textbooks

• Reduce investment in digital hubs

• Accelerate digital transformation

• Increase prices of digital products

What is a key factor for Pearson's success over the next decade?

• Focusing only on the US market

• Eliminating digital products

• Demand for quality, affordable education

• Reducing educational accessibility

What challenge does Pearson face in the secondary market?

• Limited customer base

• High demand for physical textbooks

• Competition from open source resources

• Lack of digital products

What is Pearson's target for operating profit by 2018?

• £800 million

• £500 million

• £1.5 billion

• £1 billion