Michael E. Hansen

Michael E. Hansen became Chief Executive Officer of Cengage Group in September of 2012 and has been a Director of Cengage Group since March 2014. He leads the strategy, performance and ongoing evolution of the global business. Under Michael's leadership, Cengage Group has transformed from a traditional print publisher into a global education technology company that advances the way students learn through quality, digital experiences. Michael paved the way for the textbook publishing industry’s first-ever all-access digital subscription service, Cengage Unlimited, designed to make education more accessible and affordable. More than 70% of the company's adjusted cash revenues now stem from digital (compared to fewer than 50% prior to 2012). Under his leadership, Cengage Group has transformed into an industry leader—united by a transparent culture and shared belief that through the power and joy of learning, students can enrich their lives and achieve their dreams.

Michael was named one of Fast Company’s Most Creative People in Business in 2020 for his leadership in tackling the affordability crisis in higher education, with the introduction of Cengage Unlimited. Also, he was recognized by Glassdoor as a Top CEO as part of their Employees’ Choice Award in both 2018 and 2019.

Michael has deep experience in leading organizations through business transformations. A thought leader in the information services sector, Michael has an extensive track record in developing successful business models and high-performing executive teams. Prior to joining Cengage Group, Michael served in the CEO position in a variety of large media and information services companies. Earlier in his career, Michael was the lead partner and Chairman of the digital convergence practice at the Boston Consulting Group. He currently sits on the Business Advisory Council for ProPublica, an independent, nonprofit newsroom that produces investigative journalism with moral force. Michael holds a Master of Law degree from the University of Bonn in Germany and an MBA from Columbia University in New York. He is based out of New York City.