Case Study: Penguin Random House drives cultural change with Expert Training Systems' 360 Degree Feedback

How 360 degree feedback is driving cultural change

Penguin Random House, the world’s largest publisher after its 2013 merger, wanted to define its new organization, strengthen its identity, embed new values, and support a cultural shift amid rapid change in the publishing market. In 2015, it partnered with Expert Training Systems (ETS) to introduce a 360 degree feedback programme as a key development tool for employees.

Expert Training Systems (ETS) worked with Penguin Random House to build the programme around five core values—purpose, adventure, openness, trust and heart—using stakeholder interviews, employee workshops, and leadership input to design a relevant questionnaire. The rollout began with the executive team and expanded through leadership programmes, with careful briefing and support for participants; to date, more than 100 employees have taken part, helping the company create team profiles, identify strengths and opportunities, and launch a quarterly values pulse check. The process has also helped foster greater trust, openness, and willingness to share feedback across the organization.

Penguin Random House

Claire Thomas

Head of organisational development