John Fallon

About John

• I went to the University of Hull in northeastern England to study economics, politics, and sociology—I didn’t know what I wanted to do for a career, but I was interested in politics and journalism.
• I loved college and was involved in a variety of activities and organizations, including the soccer team, labor club, student newspaper, and was even elected president of the student union.
• After graduating, I went to work in policy and communications roles for the UK government.
• Having worked in the public sector throughout my career, I realized at 30 years old that I wanted to go into the private sector...but was denied an interview by the boss of the company I applied to.
• I sent a letter to the senior hiring manager telling him that he made a huge mistake and highlighting what I had to offer, which led to a job offer a month later!
• After that, I moved on to Pearson as the director of communications.
• I was diagnosed with throat cancer in my 50s and underwent extensive treatment—after beating it, I chose to go back to work, but I make sure to really enjoy the small things now.
• I’ve now spent over 20 years with Pearson, working my way up to CEO of the company.