Australian mid-market businesses will have access to deeper AI and security expertise through the partnership between First Focus and Integris, a United States-headquartered MSP. The agreement, announced in April and completed on September 1st, 2026, combines the two businesses under the Integris name.
First Focus, which supports over 1,000 SMB customers across Australia and New Zealand, will integrate with Integris, providing managed AI and IT services to small to medium businesses. Ross Sardi, CEO of First Focus, will continue to lead the business in ANZ and assume the role of Managing Director (ANZ) and Chief Innovation Officer for the combined group.
Customer Relationships Remain Local
Management of customer relationships will remain local, with the group offering broader security and compliance capabilities, greater innovation resources, and enhanced service coverage. Sardi says, “Customers will continue to work with teams in-market that understand their needs, and maintaining those relationships is fundamental to our strategy.”
The agreement with Integris is about combining global capability with strong local delivery, according to Sardi. This partnership will pave the way for accelerated investment in AI, cybersecurity, automation, and innovation in managed services.
A Shared Vision Drives Agreement
Complementary perspectives and ambitions made the decision to join forces an obvious move, says Sardi. Integris saw in First Focus a business that shares its people-first philosophy, commitment to regulated and growth-focused organisations, and an ambition to redefine what managed services can deliver.
First Focus has been named the number one MSP in Australia for the ninth consecutive year by Cloudtango, which Sardi attributes to years of investment spent building a customer-centric organisation. The company has deliberately designed its business around accountability, responsiveness, and long-term customer relationships.
AI and Automation Driving MSP Transformation
Both First Focus and Integris see the MSP sector undergoing significant transformation, driven by AI, automation, cybersecurity, and changing customer experiences. Sardi says, “We have both invested heavily in helping customers achieve business outcomes, rather than simply maintaining technology.”
As Chief Innovation Officer, Sardi is excited about the opportunity to accelerate innovation across a much larger customer base and bring successful ideas to market faster. The role ensures the company continues to innovate, experiment, and develop practical AI-driven solutions that deliver measurable outcomes.
Customers will gain access to specialist teams across Australia, New Zealand, the United States, and the Philippines, with broader support for AI adoption, cybersecurity, compliance, and regulated-industry use cases. Sardi believes the most important element of the agreement is the creation of more opportunities for customers and employees.
First Focus is a leading managed AI and IT services provider supporting businesses across Australia and New Zealand. The company provides managed IT, cybersecurity, cloud, AI, software development, and support services for small and mid-sized organisations, with a focus on local service, customer relationships, and practical technology outcomes.
Integris, backed by OMERS Private Equity, helps organisations adopt and manage modern technology, with services spanning IT management, cybersecurity, compliance, AI adoption, and technology strategy. Following the acquisition of First Focus, Integris has expanded its international presence across Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.
With the combined expertise of First Focus and Integris, customers can expect enhanced service delivery and access to a wider range of innovative solutions. They will have the opportunity to leverage the strengths of both companies, resulting in improved business outcomes. The partnership is expected to drive growth and expansion in the region, with a focus on delivering exceptional customer experiences.
