Michael E. Hansen

Michael E. Hansen is the current CEO at Cengage. Prior to their current position, they were the CEO at Elsevier from May 2008 to September 2012. Michael has also held the position of President and CEO at Harcourt Assessment, and Executive Vice President of Operational Excellence at Bertelsmann.

Hansen is known for their work in developing and implementing a successful print-to-digital transition, notably the introduction of a truly groundbreaking reference product: “Clinical Key.” Under their leadership, Elsevier transformed from a traditional print publisher into an information-services company with an accelerated digital product development process.

At Harcourt Assessment, Hansen oversaw the rejuvenation of the company’s growth and the restoration of profitability through both new investments and strategic cost-cutting measures. Michael emphasized a culture of accountability and led change by example, ultimately executing a lucrative sale that created an industry-leading business.

As Executive Vice President of Operational Excellence at Bertelsmann, Hansen was responsible for driving operational improvements across the company. Michael successfully implemented a number of initiatives that increased efficiency and effectiveness while reducing costs.

Michael E. Hansen has a MBA from Columbia Business School and a Staatsexamen in Law from The University of Bonn.

Some direct reports include Jim Chilton - Chief Information Officer & General Manager, Jeri Herman - Senior Vice President of Human Resources, and Balraj Kalsi - EVP, General Manager, Workforce Skills.