Ecosystem thinking.
Data-driven by design.
Purposeful transformation.
Boldness for everything next.

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Services

  • We specialise in large-scale digital learning and skills-based transformations. As a trusted advisers to Fortune 500 CLOs around the world, we help companies navigate the ambiguity of change.

    Through extensive EdTech implementations, we have developed the proven data-driven methodologies and frameworks that empower L&D teams to shift from a business support function to a strategic growth engine.

    Let us help steer your L&D function into the agentic era.

  • We are both deep product dreamers firmly grounded in deep practitioner expertise. Together we leverage our knowledge of the industry and emerging technology to work with EdTech and PeopleTech vendors — from start-ups to scale-ups — advising on product vision, roadmap development, go-to-market strategy and how to decode the L&D function.

  • Considering a portofilo build in EdTech? As experienced NED Board Members, and product developers, we advise PE and VC firms on high-stakes EdTech investments. Our joy is playing matchmaker — connecting vendors with potential acquisition partners and helping investors assess true market viability.

  • For learning leaders looking to deconstruct and reframe their strategy, from the “if” to the “how to”, 8Levers offers a number of options from half-day intensives to robust workshops. Depending on geography, these are facilitated by Lori or Josh, ensuring your facilitator has walked in a leader’s shoes.

  • 8Levers is recognised for delivering in-depth, forward-looking research and analysis for both vendors and in-house leaders. Our work informs investment choices, shapes product roadmaps, and guides buyers as they evaluate emerging technologies. Every engagement is confidential, tailored, and focused on generating insights that translate directly into strategic decisions.

EdTech Strategy

Vendor Advisory Services

Investor Advisory Services

Intensives & Workshops

EdTech Strategy • Vendor Advisory Services • Investor Advisory Services • Intensives & Workshops •


Book

“The Eight Levers of EdTech Transformation”
A comprehensive guide for senior L&D leaders orchestrating enterprise skills development, one individual at a time.


About Us

Lori Niles-Hofmann:

I am a senior EdTech & AI strategist with 25 years of experience spanning international banking, management consulting, and marketing.

A person speaks on stage with a bright pink backdrop displaying the text 'i-love learning 2020' and a heart-shaped logo.

With this history, I know the underbelly of EdTech. I have an unfiltered perspective on what’s possible…and what’s pragmatic.

I know how systems, silos, and shortcuts derail transformation, especially when people are treated as endpoints rather than widgets. My work builds value by aligning technology, processes, and human capability. I am currently in a budding relationship with Agentic AI.

Based in Toronto, Canada — with one foot in Europe.


About Us

Josh Squires:

25 years in the learning industry, with tours of duty including: SVP at Bongo, Director Enterprise at 360Learning, SVP Growth at Looop, COO at Docebo. I have helped build and sell some companies along the way.

Based on this experience, I know how the EdTech sizzle and sausage gets made because I've made it. The work I do now is helping organisations do it right.

In addition to my strategic experience, I consider myself a recovering academic with nine years under my belt. So, I have spent enough time in the research to spot when L&D repackages evidence that contradicts bold claims

Based in Spain - with one foot in North America.


  • Lori is a force in the EdTech and AI transformation space. Bold. Strategic. Brilliant. She has been a go-to thought partner for years, especially when I’m facing thorny, high-stakes challenges — not because she tells me what I want to hear, but because she doesn’t. Lori brings sharp data instincts, fearless clarity, and a deep commitment to helping others achieve exceptional outcomes.

    Gina Jeneroux

    Chief Skills & Innovation Officer and Co-Founder, AETHEON

  • Lori and I have known and worked with each other multiple times over the years, she's been a go to person for some of the more off the wall ideas, helping shape, refine and make them marketable, or help me see that they simply aren't worth the effort. Her reputation in the market is second to none. She's practical and approachable and holds true to the impartial advisory services.

    Josh Novelle

    Global Head People Solutions Experience, Convatec

  • Lori is a force in the EdTech and AI transformation space. Bold. Strategic. Brilliant. She has been a go-to thought partner for years, especially when I’m facing thorny, high-stakes challenges — not because she tells me what I want to hear, but because she doesn’t. Lori brings sharp data instincts, fearless clarity, and a deep commitment to helping others achieve exceptional outcomes.

    Gina Jeneroux

    Chief Skills & Innovation Officer and Co-Founder, AETHEON

  • Lori and I have known and worked with each other multiple times over the years, she's been a go to person for some of the more off the wall ideas, helping shape, refine and make them marketable, or help me see that they simply aren't worth the effort. Her reputation in the market is second to none. She's practical and approachable and holds true to the impartial advisory services.

    Josh Novelle

    Global Head People Solutions Experience, Convatec


LinkedIn Courses

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Data-Driven
Learning Design

This 30-minute course shows L&D professionals how to use data to design smarter. Discover how to analyse learner behaviour, apply marketing techniques to boost engagement, and build a data strategy that drives measurable results.

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Upskilling and Reskilling
your Organisation

This 40-minute course helps you navigate the shift to skills-based organisations with practical tools to future-proof your workforce. Learn how to launch and scale skilling strategies that drive real business impact.