Andy BirdCBE (born 3 January 1964)[1] is a British executive. He was chairman ofWalt Disney International until 2018. Bird was the CEO ofPearson plc from October 2020 until his retirement on 8 January 2024.
Bird was born and raised inWarrington,Lancashire, England and was educated atKing's School, Macclesfield.[1][2] In 1985, Bird gained a Bachelor of Arts degree in English language and literature atNewcastle University.
Bird first started his career in broadcasting as one ofTimmy Mallett's helpers onManchester'sPiccadilly Radio. He produced the breakfast show.[3] He later moved toLondon working forRichard Branson'sVirgin Broadcasting, working on their music television channelMusic Box and satellite radio station 'Radio Radio'.[3] Next wasBritish Satellite Broadcasting'sThe Power Station channel.[2]
In 1990, Bird andChris Evans formed companyBig and Good that made programmes forTVam.
Bird joinedTime Warner in 1994 as senior vice president and general manager ofTurner Entertainment Networks Limited. In 2000, he became president of TBS International and was responsible for allTBS broadcasting outside of theUnited States.[3]
In 2004, Bird joinedThe Walt Disney Company and has since overseen the acquisition ofHungama TV inIndia and investment in India'sUTV. He also localizes content and has reorganized Disney's international structure and leadership ranks.[3]
Bird was appointedCommander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2012 Birthday Honours for services to UK media and entertainment.[4][5]
Bird was selected as CEO ofPearson plc to replace the retiringJohn Fallon and had been with the company since October 2020. He retired in January 2024.[6]
Bird is married and has two sons.[1]
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