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Director of sales and education at Firebrand Technologies, Joshua Tallent will take over as chair of the BISG board on July 1.

Alison Dolan and Alex Hardiman will join the company’s board as independent non-executive directors on June 1.

Dolan is cfo at Rightmove, and was previously at Sky Businesses and News UK. Hardiman is chief product officer at the New York Times, overseeing News, Cooking, Games and Audio products.

Pearson chair Omid Kordestani said: “I’m thrilled to welcome Alison and Alex to the Pearson Board at this exciting and transformational time. They bring deep expertise in digital and consumer products, which will help us execute on our strategic ambitions and expand our growth potential. In addition, Alison and Alex complement the existing depth of experience on our Board and their knowledge will serve us well as Pearson continues its consumer and digital journey.”

On Friday, May 12 at 1:00 pm ET they will host their 12th annual Book Group Speed Dating Event, virtually. Representatives from 10 publishers will share selections from their publishing houses via video to give booksellers, librarians and book group leaders a look at new and upcoming titles that book groups will want to know about — and discuss. eGalleys will be available to be requested for select titles from Edelweiss and/or NetGalley, as well as print galleys. Advance signup is required.