Dave Treat joins Pearson as Chief Technology Officer to lead AI and tech innovations

Pearson has announced the appointment of Dave Treat as its new Chief Technology Officer, effective immediately. Treat will report directly to CEO Omar Abbosh and will work closely with Pearson’s Chief Product and Chief Information Officers. 

His responsibilities will include leading technology innovation and architecture across the company, enhancing Pearson’s presence in the AI and tech community, driving strategic technology partnerships, and engaging with emerging technology and ed tech start-ups.

Treat brings 27 years of experience in technology, financial services, and strategic business transformation. Before joining Pearson, he was a Senior Managing Director at Accenture, where he led the Innovation Incubation Group. The role involved helping clients implement new technologies such as Generative AI, Digital Identity, Spatial Computing, Blockchain, Web 3, and Quantum Computing. 

Treat’s previous positions at Accenture included Global Technology Lead for Capital Markets, Co-chair of the New York Fintech Innovation Lab, and Global Blockchain Practice Lead. Prior to Accenture, he held senior roles at Deloitte and UBS Investment Bank, focusing on technology innovation and transformation.

Omar Abbosh, CEO of Pearson, stated:

 “Dave is an established expert and leader in the technology community. With AI moving at a rapid pace, his experience will help us seize the growing opportunity in the learning space. 

“As we increase our technology efforts, Dave will be a critical member of the team working to ensure we lead on innovation for our customers.”

Treat has founded and served on several technology and industry boards, including the Linux Hyperledger Foundation, Linux Open Wallet Foundation, Digital Dollar Project, and the Global Business Blockchain Council. He is an active member of the World Economic Forum, contributing his knowledge in blockchain, digital identity, digital currency, and digital trust. He also holds more than 100 patents.

Reflecting on his new role, Treat said: 

 “Coming from a family of educators and with my own background in education, I'm excited to combine my love of learning with my expertise in the tech space. Human experience is defined by how we learn, what we know, and how we apply knowledge. 

“Now, it’s all up for reinvention. I’ve dedicated my career to the development and application of innovative technologies and I'm looking forward to doing that in service of education and learning.”