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Your vision, our expertise.

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Who are Focus?

At Focus, our mission is to provide IT support and technologies that prioritise you.

We handle your IT support needs so you can focus on what you do best and plan for a successful future.

Founded by Darren Strong, we’ve grown from a small startup to a leading IT managed service provider serving companies throughout the North West and the UK. Our team operates from our HQ in White Moss Business Park, Skelmersdale, and our Liverpool Support Hub.

How are we different?

With 150 years of combined experience, we truly understand the IT challenges you face. Our approach is both people-friendly and bespoke, offering tailored solutions to fit your needs and budget. 

Partnering with us gives you access to experts who understand your frustrations, speak your language, and create customised plans just for you.

Our dedicated support team ensures quick problem resolution, fast response times, and regular regular meetings with your dedicated technology advisor, ensuring your business always receives top-notch support. 

To show our commitment, we implement our services alongside your current ones, free for the first month. Plus, with our 101-day smile guarantee, if you’re not satisfied, you can cancel at no cost, and we’ll assist your transition, donating a month’s support cost to a charity of your choice.

How do we do it?

We leverage our extensive expertise to offer best-in-class IT support and technical services tailored to your specific needs.

From our state-of-the-art facilities, we deliver reliable and innovative solutions that free you from IT hassles, enabling you to concentrate on what you do best.

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Our core values

Commitment

Demonstrate dedication, accountability, and care for partners, and colleagues.

partnership friendly technical support team

Partnership

Make decisions that prioritise the best outcomes for all, ensuring mutual benefit.

People First

Remain agile, responsive, and dedicated to delivering exceptional service experiences.

Embrace Change

Continuously embrace change and plan deliberately to adapt to evolving needs and challenges.

Integrity

Stay true to values and integrity always, demonstrating honesty and responsibility to all.

Meet the team

Introducing the people who make Focus extraordinary.

Darren Strong

Managing Director

David Wilkinson

Sales Director

Anthony Ward

Technical Team Lead

Stacey Vanson

Finance Manager

Emma Strong

Business Manager

Mandy Flanagan

Business Technical Advisor

Jake Edwards

Business Development Manager

Kasey Cadman

Digital Marketing Apprentice

Susan Amos

Tier 2 Service Desk Engineer

Phillip Duffy

Technical Engineer

Edward Perrin

Technical Engineer

Lauren Strong

Operations Coordinator

Gillian Brayshaw

Communications & Operations Coordinator

You'll be in good hands

hp
microsoft
advanced anti virus vipre software
cyber security data protection softare acronis
apple
cyber essentials plus certification compliance
cyber essentials certification compliance
dell
lenovo
cyber secuirty end point protection sentinal one
firewall protection cyber security sonicwall
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tinkerbell the dog
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The latest insights from Focus

Focus Tech Insider – December

December 15, 2024

Focus Tech Insider – November

November 26, 2024
IT Support heading for trouble

10 Signs Your IT Support is Heading for Trouble

November 19, 2024

Ready to switch to an IT support partner
who puts you first?

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Focus Technology Solutions Limited
3A Maple Court,
White Moss Business Park,
Skelmersdale, WN8 9TW

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© Focus Technology Solutions Limited 2024 | Company Registration Number: 12518279 | VAT No: 346 9536 62

Fun Fact

I hold a black belt in Karate

Interests

Gym, running, socialising with friends

Darren Strong

Managing Director

Linkedin

As the founder of Focus, I bring over 20 years of experience in MSP businesses. I am a mamber and facilitator at ConnectWise Evolve, a global IT Peer group. 

My career started in a bakery apprenticeship, advancing into management before founding Focus.

I’m passionate about fitness—gym workouts, running, and socialising with friends. I value our team and gaining insights into our clients’ businesses. My black belt in karate reflects the discipline I bring to my work every day.

What I enjoy the most about Focus is the amazing team of people and the opportunity to learn more about our partner businesses.

Fun Fact

I once performed at Blackpool Tower Circus.

Interests

theme parks, rollercoasters, family

David Wilkinson

Sales Director

Linkedin

I understand that there is no substitute for knowing your stuff and truly putting the interests of the client first. Understanding their business, their goals and then supporting them with solid timely advice which often includes when NOT to buy something

As a Father of three a lot of my time is spent with the family but when not arguing over what’s for tea or whose turn it is to do the washing up we are big theme park fans and enjoy the thrill of rollercoasters and other white knuckle rides.

Focus provide straight forward common sense IT that serves a purpose delivered by people who know what they are doing. That along with a friendly can-do approach is available in spades at Focus which made it an easy decision to join the team.

Fun Fact

I performed at Battle of the Bands in Liverpool

Interests

running, gym, cycling

Anthony Ward

Technical Team Lead

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.

Fun Fact

I have a stage costume design degree

Interests

learning new things, house renovation

Stacey Vanson

Finance Manager

My experience and knowledge in both the sales ledger and purchase ledger positions me well to contribute significantly to the team at Focus. My expertise in these areas will be a valuable asset. Focus provides the perfect environment for me to expand my skills and contribute meaningfully.

In my spare time, I am deeply engaged in renovating my house, a project that I tackle with enthusiasm and dedication. Additionally, I attend night school twice a week, working towards my accountancy qualification, which reflects my commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Before joining Focus, I worked as a Finance Assistant for a construction company, where I handled purchase ledger invoices and assisted with month-end processes like Fixed Assets, Prepayments, Accruals, and statement reconciliations. Prior to that, I served as an Admin Assistant for a bin servicing and hygiene company, processing orders and invoicing sales orders.

What I enjoy most about working at Focus is learning about a new industry. This experience is both challenging and rewarding, allowing me to broaden my knowledge and apply my skills in new contexts.

Fun Fact

I’ve been on TV and can do the splits!

Interests

travelling, exploring cultures, food, family

Emma Strong

Business 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.

Fun Fact

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Interests

eating out, horse riding, dog walking

Mandy Flanagan

Business Technology Advisor

Linkedin

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

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 Focus team, we are all great people and we are all extremely well looked after by Darren.

In my free time, I enjoy horse riding, walking my dog and eating out discovering new places and cuisines.

I love a good giggle and everything makes me laugh and smile!

Fun Fact

I am learning Arabic

Interests

nature filled walks,  music

Jake Edwards

Business Development Manager

Linkedin

I bring a revenue-generating mindset to the Focus team, prioritising 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 service we offer, especially after speaking with Darren.

Prior to joining Focus I gained experience working in hospitality and provided customer services for renowned 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 sales person.

Fun Fact

One of my nicknames is chicken!

Interests

days out to zoo, aquariums with son

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 chose to embark on my career with Focus because Darren recognised 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 of our team, where each member fosters a welcoming environment, making us feel like one big cohesive unit.

Fun Fact

I wanted to be an accountant!

Interests

online gaming, walks, working out

Susan Amos

Tier 2 Service Desk Engineer

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, Anthony, and Owner, Darren. While I had worked in IT roles before, I spent 10 years doing night shifts at another 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 doing office admin due to a mix-up during my NVQ interview.

Fun Fact

I have double-jointed thumbs!

Interests

painting miniatures, board games, video gaming

Phillip Duffy

Technical Engineer

I bring a unique blend of humour and a strong willingness to dive into tasks with enthusiasm. My personality shines through in everything I do, adding a vibrant dynamic to the team.

Outside of work, I have a passion for painting miniatures, playing board games, and indulging in video games. These activities not only fuel my creativity but also keep me engaged and refreshed.

Pursuing a career in IT has always been a dream of mine. I am excited about working closely with IT and learning from this dynamic field.

Before joining the team, I honed my skills in the retail sector. This experience equipped me with valuable insights into customer service and teamwork.

The opportunity to work with an incredible team and immerse myself in the IT world is what I love most about my role. The camaraderie and the chance to work in IT make every day enjoyable.

Fun Fact

My nicknames are Edwardo and Penza

Interests

spending time with family, walking, working out, gaming

Edward Perrin

Technical Engineer

I bring a mature and dedicated approach to the team, always eager to lend a hand and work hard when needed. This commitment to excellence is a core part of my professional ethos.

My career in IT was a natural choice, given my long-standing passion for the field. When the opportunity to join this team arose, it was an easy decision. I’m excited to pursue my dream in an environment that fuels my enthusiasm.

Before joining Focus, my experience in IT was primarily academic, having studied it for three years in college. I also have four years of retail experience at Home Bargains, where I developed valuable customer service and teamwork skills. My eagerness to embrace new challenges and learn new things is what I consider my best quality. This openness to new experiences helps me grow both personally and professionally.

The thing I enjoy most about working at Focus is the incredible team. From day one, I have been made to feel incredibly welcome, and the sense of camaraderie here is second to none.

Fun Fact

Since 12, ‘Lolly’ has been my nickname

Interests

taking and teaching dance, gym, shopping

Lauren Strong

Administrative Assistant

I bring a unique blend of creativity, exceptional organisational skills, and meticulous attention to detail to our team. These qualities enable me to manage tasks efficiently and produce high-quality work.

My decision to join this field was driven by my love for challenges and eagerness to learn new things. Working outside of dancing and teaching provides a healthy balance, preventing burnout and allowing me to continue pursuing my passion for dance alongside my professional career. Academically, I achieved distinction * and distinction in my business A-Levels, demonstrating my strong academic abilities. Professionally, I’ve gained valuable experience working as a cashier in a bank, where I honed my customer service and financial skills.

I pride myself on striving for success and possessing a kind, warm-hearted personality. These traits help me build positive relationships and contribute to a collaborative work environment. The friendly and hardworking nature of our team is what I enjoy most about working here. The willingness of everyone to help each other out creates a supportive and positive workplace.

Fun Fact

I bungey-jumped on my 21st birthday just for fun!

Interests

Rock choir, films, nature, friends and family

Gillian Brayshaw

Communications and Operations Coordinator

Linkedin

I have 11 years of experience within the MSP industry working on all sorts of projects, simplifying and enhancing communications, process improvements, application training – generally getting stuck in. Focus is no different. I love being with the people at work, they are friendly, fun and sometimes silly, but most of all they have people at the heart of what they do.

I have previously worked with Darren, Mandy, Angela and Dave and enjoyed working with and learning from them.  The vision for Focus, where it is going and the people it aims to help resonate with my desire to solve problems for people. I am excited to be part of its future success.

I like to think I am known for my friendly, understanding nature, patience, a good listener and a great hugger. 

tinkerbell the dog

Fun Fact

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Interests

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Tinkerbell

Mental Health Dog

As the beloved mental health dog of our team, Tinkerbell plays a crucial role in boosting morale and providing emotional support. Her presence brings a sense of calm and comfort, making our workplace a more relaxing and enjoyable space.

Tinkerbell is known for her gentle demeanour and friendly disposition. She has a way of sensing when someone needs a little extra support and is always ready to offer a comforting nuzzle or a friendly wag of her tail.

When she’s not busy brightening up our day, Tinkerbell loves going for walks, playing fetch, and, of course, enjoying a good belly rub. She’s also a big fan of treats and has a charming way of winning over even the most reserved visitors.

Tinkerbell’s presence in our office is more than just about fun and games; she plays a vital role in promoting mental well-being. Her interactions with team members help reduce stress, encourage moments of mindfulness, and provide a much-needed break during busy days.

Tinkerbell has an adorable habit of tilting her head when she’s curious or listening intently, which never fails to bring a smile to everyone’s face.