The award recognised the FTSE 100 company’s successful completion of value-adding acquisitions which ICAEW said broadened its addressable market and increased its technical capabilities.
The annual prize is awarded for the successful use of M&A to increase growth and shareholder value, and to outperform the market, using a methodology devised by the ICAEW Corporate Finance Faculty in partnership with Bayes Business School.
ICAEW noted that Pearson’s strategy of expanding through M&A in core areas was very well received by financial markets, resulting in enhanced shareholder value. Pearson’s performance aligned well with growing demand for online learning and workplace services, keeping pace with post-pandemic trends and the rising adoption of AI technologies.
Alistair Brew, chair of the ICAEW Corporate Finance Faculty, and Andrew Rutherford from Arbuthnot, presented the award to Rachel Coulson, Deputy CFO of Pearson, at an event held by the Institute’s Corporate Finance Faculty at Fishmongers’ Hall yesterday.
David Petrie, ICAEW Head of Corporate Finance, said:
“This year’s winner of our corporate development award shares many of the same ideals and purpose as ICAEW, with both our organisations being committed to lifelong learning.
“Pearson is at the forefront of delivering learning and development using AI, at a time when deal-making and investment is itself being transformed by the same technologies. We congratulate them on their successful use of M&A and for winning this award.”
Rachel Coulson, Pearson Deputy CFO, said:
“This award from ICAEW is a reflection of the hard work and talent within Pearson, our disciplined approach to capital allocation, and a deep focus on product innovation and execution - all underpinned by a shared belief in our purpose to help people realise the life they imagine through learning.”
Speakers at the event included Lord Clement-Jones, Liberal Democrat Lords spokesperson for Science, Innovation and Technology; Alan Vallance, ICAEW Chief Executive; Alistair Brew, Head of Investment Operations, BGF; and David Petrie, ICAEW Head of Corporate Finance.
ENDS
Notes to editors:
CONTACT: ICAEW media office stephen.froome@icaew.com or 07970 402 073