First Focus has announced the acquisition of CNX, a Nelson-headquartered managed services provider with offices in Nelson and Christchurch, marking a significant step in strengthening local capability for New Zealand organisations.
CNX will form the foundation of First Focus’s national platform in New Zealand, building on more than a decade of operating in Auckland in support of Australian clients. The acquisition represents a long term commitment to investing in people, capability, and service delivery across both the North and South Islands.
Ross Sardi, CEO of First Focus, said the decision to acquire CNX was driven by strong alignment in leadership, culture, and client focus.
“CNX stood out for its quality of local leadership, its strong cultural alignment with our business, and its deep commitment to client outcomes. They also share our ambition to help shape the future of managed services in the AI era. Establishing a national platform in New Zealand is an important milestone for us.”
– Ross Sardi
The existing CNX team will remain in place in Nelson and Christchurch, continuing to support customers locally. Clients will retain their trusted relationships while gaining access to broader capability and resources across the First Focus group.
New Zealand customers will benefit from expanded services including 24x7 support, advanced cybersecurity, AI and automation solutions, and software development capability.
As part of the transition, CNX CEO Paul Burt will continue with First Focus, focusing on leading growth initiatives across the South Island and strengthening strategic client and partner relationships.
Paul said the acquisition positions CNX and its clients for the next phase of technology transformation.
“This partnership brings forward approximately three years of planned improvements across AI, security, cloud, and advanced services into the next few months. This gives our clients earlier access to tools and expertise that will help their businesses move faster, operate more securely, and gain a genuine competitive advantage.”
– Paul Burt
Branding will transition progressively over time as systems and platforms are integrated, ensuring continuity and a seamless experience for customers and staff.
For First Focus, the acquisition of CNX represents an important step in its broader international growth strategy. The company continues to assess further opportunities that align with its culture, capability, and long term vision across Australia, New Zealand, and other selected markets.
Founded in 2003, First Focus has completed fifteen acquisitions to date, reinforcing its position as a leading provider of managed IT, cybersecurity, cloud, AI, automation, and collaboration solutions for mid-market organisations.
Founded in 2003, First Focus is a multi-award-winning managed service provider delivering IT support, cybersecurity, AI, SharePoint, cloud, automation, and collaboration solutions to mid-market organisations across Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
First Focus is committed to helping clients achieve better business outcomes through technology that works, delivered by people who care.
For additional information relating to this press release, please contact David Jalkh: david.jalkh@firstfocus.com.au
