Andy Bird is the former CEO of Pearson plc, the world's leading learning company.

Prior to Pearson, Andy was Chairman, Walt Disney International, responsible for the company’s activities outside the United States. During his tenure, Andy realigned Disney to become an entrepreneurial, locally-driven organization.

He was President of Turner Broadcasting International from 1993 until 2003, where he successfully oversaw the launch and growth of Turner's entertainment brands: Cartoon Network, TNT & TCM.

Andy believes that Curiosity, Optimism and Integrity are at the heart of any successful organization and that Human Capital is the most important element for success.

Andy was appointed Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2012 Queen's Birthday Honours for services to UK media and entertainment.

Andy is also an Adviser to the Board of Trade where he works with the UK government to support businesses to grow, including through exporting. Through his role with the Board of Trade, Andy has contributed perspectives on areas such an innovation and skills as well as engaged directly with SMEs to support them as they break into new markets. He is looking forward to meeting and supporting UK companies at CogX as part of his role on the Board of Trade.