Jacob Ohlson (BCompSc)
With a career spanning over three decades in the IT industry, I've experienced the dramatic evolution of technology firsthand. Beginning my professional journey in 1992, I recall a time when email addresses were novel, internet connections were scarce, and mobile phones were a futuristic concept.
I began my professional path with ALLOY, a U.S.-based manufacturer and supplier of IT equipment. If the memories of green and orange serial-based terminal screens or large format tape drives evoke nostalgia, then we're certainly on the same page! Over a three-year tenure with ALLOY, I quickly rose to the role of Technical Manager, offering impeccable technical support to MSPs in Australia. This experience endowed me with insights into the supply and distribution chains and highlighted a need for high-quality MSP services. Determined to bridge this gap, I embarked on my entrepreneurial journey.
In 1994, Powernet was conceived and over its next almost 30 years, I wore many hats — from Founder to CEO, CTO, CIO, Senior engineer, helpdesk coordinator, service manager and more. Having been through every role, I have an intimate understanding of the MSP landscape. Under my leadership, Powernet burgeoned into a prominent entity, boasting a 95+ strong workforce spread across four offices in AU/NZ. As the business matured, I shifted my focus to client engagement, operating as an Account Manager and Business Development Manager with a lean towards an outsourced CIO/CTO, roles that I deeply cherished.
By 2022, Powernet's stellar reputation had caught the industry's eye, leading to an irresistible acquisition offer. It fills me with pride to share that Powernet's first two clients from 1994 remained with us, a testament to our commitment to lasting service excellence.
Post Powernet, my fervour has been rekindled, but with a fresh perspective. Rather than heading an MSP, I now immerse myself within organisations, working shoulder to shoulder with executive leadership. With a renewed focus on strategic alignment over sales metrics, my commitment lies purely in enhancing an organisation's technological trajectory. On a fixed monthly retainer, I bring significant strategic value to the table.
It's crucial to clarify: I'm not an MSP; I'm Your IT Director, who will leverage and help manage your MSP.
Jacob Ohlson (BCompSc)
Your IT Director
