The Global Power 50

Country: Britain
2006 rank:  5

Scardino, 60, celebrated a decade with Pearson in January. While skeptics thought the end of her career was near, Pearson reported record profits in 2006, with sales up 8%, to nearly $8 billion. Further buoying Scardino's position is the Financial Times, which has returned to profit and increased circulation. Pearson's cash cow, its education arm, is booming as new acquisition Harcourt strengthens the company's international presence.