Meet the Team!

Introducing the people-powered team that makes Focus Technology Solutions great.

Darren Strong
Managing Director
Angela Strong
Operations Manager
Emma Strong
Finance Manager
Anthony Ward
Technical Team Lead
Mandy Flanagan
Business Technology Advisor
Jake Edwards
Business Development Manager
Kelly Roughley
Finance Assistant and Admin
Kasey Cadman
Digital Marketing Apprentice
Susan Amos
Tier 2 Service Desk Analyst
Patrick Milne
Tier 2 Service Desk Analyst
Brandon Robinson
Technical Apprentice
Phillip Duffy
Technical Apprentice
Edward Perrin
Technical Apprentice
Archie Strong
Baby Apprentice
Tinkerbell
Mental Health Dog

Darren Strong

Managing Director

I bring a different perspective and experience to the Focus team. In my spare time, I enjoy going to the gym, running and socializing with friends at the pub! 

I decided to create Focus as I wanted to create the best in class IT support provider in the UK. Before, FTS I had over 20 years of experience in other MSP businesses, and I was also a member and facilitator at ConnectWise Evolve.

Prior to that,I started my working carriwer by completing an apprenticeship in a bakery where I worked my way up to be a part of the management team.

What I enjoy the most about Focus is the people within the team and the opportunity to learn about our client businesses.

I hold a black belt in the art of karate and believe this is what has given me the struuctre I work to everyday.

Superpower? 🦸‍♂️

Commitment

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Sweet

Angela Strong

Operations Manager

I bring experience, leadership, and a wealth of knowledge from my years of working in the MSP industry. I have learned valuable lessons and what works within an MSP, as well as what doesn’t.

In my spare time, I enjoy trying out new restaurants as I am a foodie.

I chose Focus because I wanted to be part of a company where we could build something remarkable from the ground up and where people are prioritized. Before joining Focus, I had 13 years of experience in the MSP world, starting as a Tier 1 engineer and eventually becoming a Service Delivery Manager. I am able to adapt quickly to different situations, which is especially valuable in a fast-paced environment.

The aspect I enjoy the most about our team is the team it’s self and our company culture. People are truly the heart of the company, and whether it’s our colleagues or clients, they always come first.

Superpower? 🦸‍♀️

Problem solver

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Both!

Emma Strong

Finance Manager

I have exceptional organisational skills, I am very quick to think on my feet and I have a very strong personality which allows me to get on with everyone extremely well.

I am a very social individual and enjoy spending time with my family & friends. I love going out and relaxing with my friends to various locations. I also enjoy going on holiday, exploring different cultures and all the different dishes from around the world.

I have been in the Finance industry for many years and I have learned a few tricks of the trade over these many years. I am proud to be a part of such a family orientated team and how we always treat everyone with respect and we cherish each and everyone of our customers.

I have many facts about myself such as; I have been on TV before, I have 8 dogs, I can do the splits and I cant eat jelly.

Superpower? 🦸‍♀️

Multitasking

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Salty!!

Anthony Ward

Technical Team Leader

I have a strong professional presence and a welcoming personality that contributes to a positive work environment.

In my spare time, I am actively engaged in physical activities such as running, going to the gym, cycling and walking, which helps me maintain a healthy work-life balance.

I have been working in the IT industry since the early 2000s and have played a key role in establishing and developing 9 Pandora Jewellery franchises. I am grateful for Darren’s influence in my career progression.

I use to play in a band and we played at Battle of the Bands in Liverpool. I have many nicknames including; Wardy, Clint and Captain Awesome.

Superpower? 🦸‍♂️

Troubleshooter

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Salty

Mandy Flanagan

Business Technology Advisor

I have over 40 years of experience in Sales/Account management.

In my free time, I enjoy horse riding, walking my dog and eating out whether that’s new or old places.

I have worked with Darren and Angela previously and I really enjoyed working with them both. I have a lot of respect for them both so I decided to join them to help with the growth of Focus, which gave me the challenge I was looking for.

I have worked in all industry sectors such as; manufacturer, distribution and MSP. I love our team because we are all great people and we are all extremely well looked after by Darren.

My work nickname is Flange however, at home it is Gupt! I love a good giggle and everything makes  me laugh and smile!

Superpower? 🦸‍♀️

People Person

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Both!

Jake Edwards

Business Development Manager

I bring a revenue-generating mindset to the Focus team, prioritizing value and providing exceptional IT support to our prospective partners.

In my spare time, I am learning Arabic as a secondary language, enjoy nature-filled walks, and listening to music.

I decided to pursue my career at Focus because I believed in the product, especially after speaking with Darren. Prior to joining Focus I gained experience working in hospitality and provided customer services for reowned companies such as Iceland. The aspect I enjoy the most about working at Focus is the engagement with the sales team. Mandy, in particular, is an invaluable mentor, and learning from  her vast experience is incredibly beneficial for any young 

Superpower? 🦸‍♂️

Empathetic

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Salty

Kelly Roughley

Finance Assistant and Admin

I bring a sense humour and light-heartedness to the Focus team, aiming to create a positive and enjoyable atmosphere.

In my spare time, I engage in various hobbies such as going on days out with my son, I love cleaning, listing to music, cooking and upcycling projects and making homemade cards.

I choose to pursue my career at Focus because of the warm and welcoming environment, which feels like a clos-knit family. I’m grateful for the opportunity to work here. Prior to joining Focus, I gained experience in accounts through working at a family fishmonger business and a hydroponic wholesalers, eventually transitioning to a wetstock analysis company.

What I enjoy the most about working at Focus is the friendly and humorous staff, as well as the dynamic and diverse nature of the work, which keeps me engaged and challenged on a daily basis.

Superpower? 🦸‍♀️

Approachable

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Sweet these days

Kasey Cadman

Digital Marketing Apprentice

I bring a youthful perspective and vibrant energy to the team, infusing the workplace with positivity and admiration.

I enjoy spending quality time with my son, Archie. We enjoy going on days out to the zoo and aquariums or even just a walk, I love spending time with my son.

I chose to embark on my career journey with Focus because Darren recognized my immense passion for marketing and digital design. He provides me with invaluable support by guiding me as an apprentice and assisting me with various tasks. I really take pleasure in the inclusive and supportive nature o our team, where each member fosters a welcoming environment, making us feel like one big cohesive unit.

I have multiple nicknames such as;  kasey k, kissy, chicken and bob!

Superpower? 🦸‍♀️

Dedication and enthusiasm

Sweet or Salty?🍬🥨

Salty Definitely!!

Susan Amos

Tier 2 Service Desk Anaylst

I have extensive experience and take pride in providing great customer service with my bubbly personality.

In my free time, I enjoy playing online games, going for walks and working out to stay active.

The reason I chose this workplace is that I already had a relationship with the Manager and Owner. While I had worked in IT roles before, I spent 10 years doing night shifts at an MSP company.

I’m known for my persistence and understanding, always holding onto issues until they are resolved, and I excel at speaking non-technical terms to help users.

What I love most about my job is the amazing people I work with an the lovely clients we support. Interestingly, my initial career interest was to become an accountant, but I ended up n office admin due to a mix-up during my NVQ interview.

Superpower? 🦸‍♀️

IT Jargon Free Expert

Sweet or Salty? 🍬🥨

Both