ELIG is an open group defined by a shared vision – to change the way Europe learns. Its members represent the European learning and educational publishing, technology, and service industry, as well as leading public and private education and learning institutions.

In response to the appointment, Piers commented, "I’m delighted to be joining the board, and I look forward to working with the rest of the ELIG team to help put 21st-century learning at the heart of the European agenda."

Richard Straub, Secretary General of ELIG commented, "On behalf of the ELIG secretariat, we are proud to have world-class companies and top academic institutions represented on the new ELIG board and in the ELIG membership. The innovators in learning will have a competitive edge in the future. Our leading role in strategic European initiatives ranging from creative schools and open educational resources to corporate learning demonstrates our commitment to Europe's future development."