Learning Pool

Founded in 2006 by Paul McElvaney at his kitchen table in Derry, Northern Ireland, Learning Pool provides data-driven digital learning solutions for organizations worldwide. McElvaney, who grew up on a family farm and later gained experience in IT consultancy, identified an opportunity to develop online training content for local authorities. He started the company by directly approaching government offices in the UK, offering a subscription-based model instead of upfront fees, a novel approach at the time.

The company operates in the corporate learning technologies market, serving a diverse client base that includes industries such as business services, finance, retail, and technology. Learning Pool's business model is centered on providing a comprehensive suite of learning technologies through a subscription service, which includes platforms, content, and analytics. Revenue is generated from these subscription fees, with pricing tailored to the number of users and the specific services selected. The company caters to a global audience, with notable clients like Valvoline, Royal Caribbean Group, and Villeroy & Boch.

Learning Pool's enterprise portfolio is designed to optimize employee performance through intelligent, data-driven learning experiences. Its core offering is the Learning Pool Platform, a cloud-based system that facilitates onboarding, compliance training, and employee upskilling. A key feature is its ability to create personalized learning paths by analyzing learner data in real-time. The platform incorporates an AI-powered Skills Builder to identify and address skills gaps, and features like AI Coach enhance the learning journey. The company also offers a vast library of editable e-learning modules, custom content development services, and OnScreen Guidance for software adoption.

Significant milestones include receiving its first private equity investment in 2016 from Carlyle Cardinal Ireland, which fueled a period of rapid growth and enabled its first acquisition. In 2021, Marlin Equity Partners acquired a majority stake, further supporting the company's expansion and product development. The company has a history of strategic acquisitions to enhance its capabilities, including Remote Learner to expand its US presence and People-Analytix for its AI-based skills management platform. In August 2024, as part of a planned succession, Benoit de la Tour was appointed CEO, with Paul McElvaney transitioning to the role of Executive Chairman.

Keywords: corporate learning, e-learning solutions, employee training, digital learning, talent development, learning management system, LMS, compliance training, upskilling, personalized learning, data-driven learning, onboarding solutions, skills management, AI in learning, learning technology, custom content development, Learning Record Store, LRS, corporate education, workforce performance, adaptive learning