New Chief Executive for Cambridge Assessment English

07 January 2019

Cambridge Assessment today announces the appointment of Francesca Woodward as the new Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment English.

Fran joined the organisation nearly two years ago as Director of Cambridge English’s Global Network, leading a large team across multiple offices worldwide and working closely with Cambridge University Press. She is currently in charge of a strategic review of existing and future technology at parent organisation Cambridge Assessment. Fran will move into her new role on March 1 after the successful completion of the review, taking over from Christine Nuttall, Cambridge English’s Interim Chief Executive.

Before joining Cambridge English, Fran had a 16-year career at Pearson, where she worked in a variety of commercial leadership roles across the company's products and regions.

Saul Nassé, Cambridge Assessment Group Chief Executive, said: “I am incredibly pleased that Francesca Woodward will be the next Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment English.

“Fran understands our customers and our business inside out, and has ambitious plans for how we can help more people than ever learn English and prove their skills to the world, working with our colleagues in the Press. On top of that, she’s a very motivating leader who will take her teams to the next level, particularly around our digital transformation.”

Fran said: “I am delighted to be appointed as Chief Executive of Cambridge Assessment English. I’m proud that the organisation supports learners everywhere, helping them to achieve their ambitions, whether that’s in higher education, the world of work or through cultural enrichment.

“I am looking forward to working with Cambridge University Press and other partners to continue to deliver the very best experience for learners and education professionals, as well as to build on the great new work we are doing in digital and educational technology.”

Fran has a BA in Business from Staffordshire University and a Post Graduate Diploma from Manchester Metropolitan University.

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