Leading authority on education systems and education reform. For over two decades, research and advisory work focused on school improvement, standards and performance; system-wide reform; effective implementation; access, success and funding in higher education; and access and quality in schools in developing countries. Former Professor, Institute of Education, Univ. of London. With the UK government: 1997-2001, Chief Adviser to the Secretary of State for Education on School Standards. 2001-05, Head of the Prime Minister's Delivery Unit. Former: Partner, McKinsey & Co.; Head of McKinsey's global education practice. Co-authored two major McKinsey education reports. Sept. 2011, joined Pearson as Chief Education Adviser, leading worldwide programme of efficacy and research. Chairman, Pearson Affordable Learning Fund. DfID's Special Rep. on Education in Pakistan. Author.