Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K Current Report was filed by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. on May 6, 2026. The filing reports on executive leadership changes within the Research and Learning division, effective May 11, 2026.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing text does not provide a clear value for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. This report focuses exclusively on personnel changes and does not contain financial performance data.
Material Changes
- Departure: Jay Flynn, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Research and Learning, is departing the company.
- Appointment: Jessica Kowalski has been appointed as Executive Vice President and General Manager, Research.
- Effective Date: The leadership transition is scheduled to take effect on May 11, 2026.
Management Commentary and Risks
Management Commentary: Ms. Kowalski joins from Microsoft, bringing over two decades of experience in knowledge, data, research publishing, and AI-enabled businesses. Her background includes senior operating roles at Amazon Web Services and RELX. Mr. Flynn's departure is stated to be "without cause."
Compensatory Arrangements: As the departure is without cause, Mr. Flynn is eligible for separation benefits in accordance with his Employment Letter dated September 28, 2021, and the Company's Executive Severance Policy.
Risks and Contingencies: The filing does not disclose new material risks or contingencies beyond the standard implications of executive turnover.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the specific terms of Mr. Flynn's separation benefits by reviewing the previously filed Employment Letter (Sept 28, 2021) and Executive Severance Policy in the Company's Form 10-K.
- Confirm the scope of Ms. Kowalski's new role and whether it encompasses the "Learning" division previously managed by Mr. Flynn.
- Review the press release (Exhibit 99.1) for additional strategic context regarding the Research division's future direction.