Cambium Learning Group Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Cambium Learning Group has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, finance, marketing, operations, legal, human resources, and product development.

Dedicated to advancing educational outcomes, Cambium Learning Group provides essential services, equipment, and products for schools and home schooling environments, driving innovation in the education sector.

Leadership Roles at Cambium Learning Group

  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - Ashley Zantop
  • Chief Financial Officer - Barbara Benson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Kemi Akinsanya-Rose
  • President, Lexia Learning & Voyager Sopris Learning - Nicholas Gaehde
  • Chief Information Officer - Diana Cano
  • Chief Marketing Officer - John Jorgenson
  • Chief Legal Officer - Ryan Brown
  • Chief People Officer - Melissa May
  • Ashley Zantop - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    Ashley Zantop, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Cambium Learning Group, directs the overarching corporate strategy and vision. Overseeing all major business units, Ashley Zantop ensures alignment with the company's mission to provide impactful educational services, equipment, and products for schools and home schooling. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and fostering innovation across the organization. By setting strategic priorities, Ashley Zantop guides the company's expansion and market positioning within the competitive education technology landscape. The Chairman & Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include cultivating key stakeholder relationships and ensuring the long-term financial health and operational excellence of Cambium Learning Group. This executive's guidance shapes the company's direction, impacting educational outcomes nationwide.

    Barbara Benson - Chief Financial Officer

    Barbara Benson, the Chief Financial Officer at Cambium Learning Group, manages all financial operations and fiscal strategy. Overseeing budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, Barbara Benson ensures the fiscal health and sustainability of the organization's educational services and product offerings. This critical role involves optimizing financial performance, managing capital allocation, and mitigating financial risks to support the company's growth objectives. By providing strategic financial insights, Barbara Benson guides investment decisions and resource management across all departments. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities extend to investor relations and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations. This executive's leadership is fundamental to the company's ability to deliver high-quality educational solutions and maintain a strong market presence.

    Kemi Akinsanya-Rose - Chief Operating Officer

    Kemi Akinsanya-Rose, the Chief Operating Officer at Cambium Learning Group, directs daily operational activities and process optimization. Overseeing the execution of business strategies, Kemi Akinsanya-Rose ensures the efficient and effective delivery of educational services, equipment, and products to customers nationwide. This leadership position involves managing supply chain logistics, customer support functions, and internal operational workflows to enhance productivity and service quality. By streamlining operations, Kemi Akinsanya-Rose supports the company's commitment to providing accessible and high-impact learning solutions. The Chief Operating Officer's focus includes driving operational excellence, managing cross-functional team collaboration, and implementing best practices across all operational facets. This executive's oversight is crucial for maintaining the seamless delivery of Cambium Learning Group's educational offerings.

    Nicholas Gaehde - President, Lexia Learning & Voyager Sopris Learning

    Nicholas Gaehde, the President, Lexia Learning & Voyager Sopris Learning at Cambium Learning Group, drives the strategic direction and operational performance of these key educational divisions. Overseeing product development, market strategy, and customer engagement for Lexia Learning and Voyager Sopris Learning, Nicholas Gaehde ensures these brands deliver impactful learning solutions. This leadership role involves fostering innovation within the product portfolios and expanding their reach to educational institutions and home users. By focusing on pedagogical effectiveness and user experience, Nicholas Gaehde enhances the value proposition of these critical Cambium Learning Group entities. The President's responsibilities include managing P&L, leading cross-functional teams, and aligning divisional goals with the broader corporate mission. This executive's leadership is central to the success and growth of these prominent educational brands.

    Diana Cano - Chief Information Officer

    Diana Cano, the Chief Information Officer at Cambium Learning Group, architects the company's technology infrastructure and digital transformation initiatives. Overseeing all IT operations, Diana Cano ensures the secure and efficient delivery of educational services, equipment, and products to schools and home schooling users. This role involves managing enterprise-wide systems, data security protocols, and the implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance learning experiences. By driving technological advancements, Diana Cano supports the company's mission to improve educational outcomes through accessible and effective tools. The Chief Information Officer's strategic focus includes optimizing system performance, managing cybersecurity risks, and leveraging data analytics to inform business decisions. This leadership position is critical for maintaining operational continuity and enabling scalable growth for Cambium Learning Group.

    John Jorgenson - Chief Marketing Officer

    John Jorgenson, the Chief Marketing Officer at Cambium Learning Group, spearheads all marketing and brand strategy initiatives. Overseeing market research, product positioning, and promotional campaigns, John Jorgenson drives customer acquisition and brand awareness for the company's educational services and products. This role involves developing and executing integrated marketing plans to reach schools and home schooling audiences effectively. By identifying market trends and customer needs, John Jorgenson ensures that Cambium Learning Group's offerings resonate with their target demographics. The Chief Marketing Officer's responsibilities include managing digital marketing efforts, public relations, and content strategy to enhance the company's market impact. This executive's vision is key to expanding the reach and reputation of Cambium Learning Group.
    Ryan Brown, the Chief Legal Officer at Cambium Learning Group, provides strategic legal counsel and oversees all legal affairs. Managing corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and risk management, Ryan Brown ensures that the company operates within legal frameworks while pursuing its educational mission. This role involves advising on contracts, intellectual property, and litigation matters to protect the company's interests. By navigating complex legal landscapes, Ryan Brown supports the integrity and stability of Cambium Learning Group's operations and its provision of educational services and products. The Chief Legal Officer's responsibilities include developing legal policies and ensuring adherence to all applicable laws and industry standards. This executive's expertise is vital for safeguarding the company's reputation and facilitating its continued growth.

    Melissa May - Chief People Officer

    Melissa May, the Chief People Officer at Cambium Learning Group, leads human resources strategy and talent management. Overseeing recruitment, employee development, and organizational culture, Melissa May fosters a supportive and high-performing work environment essential for delivering educational services and products. This role involves implementing policies that attract, retain, and engage top talent, ensuring the company has the skilled workforce needed to achieve its objectives. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Melissa May contributes directly to the company's ability to innovate and serve its customers effectively. The Chief People Officer's responsibilities include managing compensation and benefits, employee relations, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. This executive's focus on people is integral to Cambium Learning Group's success.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Cambium Learning Group Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Cambium Learning Group?
    Cambium Learning Group is led by Ashley Zantop (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Barbara Benson (Chief Financial Officer) and Kemi Akinsanya-Rose (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Cambium Learning Group’s executive team?
    The executive team of Cambium Learning Group includes leaders such as Ashley Zantop (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Barbara Benson (Chief Financial Officer), Kemi Akinsanya-Rose (Chief Operating Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Cambium Learning Group have?
    Cambium Learning Group has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Cambium Learning Group’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Cambium Learning Group includes roles such as Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer, President, Lexia Learning & Voyager Sopris Learning, Chief Information Officer.