**The big picture:** Pearson, a global learning company, has appointed Simon Robson as its new Group Chief Financial Officer, succeeding Sally Johnson, who is departing for a CFO role at a privately owned business. **Why it matters:** This executive transition highlights the ongoing movement of top-tier financial talent within large organizations and the strategic importance of CFO leadership in driving company performance and transformation. **Between the lines:** - Simon Robson brings extensive financial leadership experience from Sky, where he served as Group CFO since June 2020. - Sally Johnson served Pearson for nearly 26 years, including six years as Group CFO, playing a key role in financial strengthening and business transformation. - Robson will join Pearson on March 30, 2026, and officially assume the CFO role on May 8, 2026, following a planned succession process. **Staffing & HR impact:** Executive search and succession planning remain critical HR functions, ensuring seamless leadership transitions and the retention of institutional knowledge. The movement of high-level talent like CFOs can influence organizational strategy and financial health. **The bottom line:** This leadership change at Pearson underscores the dynamic nature of executive talent markets and the continuous need for robust succession strategies.