Optimising IT joins Lyra Technology Group, part of world leading Evergreen Services Group

We’re delighted to share some exciting news: Optimising IT has joined Lyra Technology Group, part of the Evergreen Services Group, the world leading permanent home for leading IT services businesses like us!

This is a big step forward, not just for our team, but for our clients and partners as well. Evergreen invests in and supports successful technology services businesses for the long term.

Why Evergreen?

We have always been a people-first business. That’s why, when we considered outside investment, we looked for more than just funding, we wanted a partner who shares our values, respects what we’ve built, and would help us scale without sacrificing what makes Optimising IT special.

Evergreen stood out from the start. They take a unique “buy and hold forever” approach, meaning they’re in it for the long haul. They provide long-term backing, strategic support, and a powerful network of peers that allows companies like ours to grow stronger, smarter, and more resilient.

What’s Staying the Same?

We know that news like this can raise questions – so let’s address the big ones up front:

• We will continue to operate as an independent company as Optimising IT, a Certified B Corp, and a local business, with offices across the South West.  
• Our leadership team, staff, services, and brand are not changing. 
• Your contracts and pricing stay the same.
• Our client’s will benefit from expanded services and innovation without disruption.  We now have access to a global network of peer companies across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Evergreen has invested in Optimising IT because of what we’ve built, not to change it. 
• We’re still here, the same team you know and trust.

Our client’s satisfaction remains our most important benchmark, and we’re committed to maintaining the personal, reliable support that has defined our work since day one. 

What’s New (and Exciting!)

This partnership isn’t about change, it’s about smart, future-focused growth. Here’s what you can expect going forward: 

• Stronger tech capabilities. We’re doubling down on emerging technologies – including AI, cybersecurity, and automation – to help our clients stay ahead.
• Global insights. As part of the Evergreen network, we’ll collaborate with other IT leaders across the US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand – bringing back best practices and innovations to benefit our clients. 

We are incredibly excited about what this means for the future. It gives us the ability to scale sustainably, improve continuously, and stay ahead in a fast-changing tech landscape – while keeping our focus squarely on what matters: our people and our clients. 

Leadership changes

None! In short, nothing for our customers.

We will continue to operate as Optimising IT, retain our brand, remain a B Corp, and keep our team and culture intact.  

Gary Smith, our founder, and the board of non-executive directors have stepped down from their roles.  

Todd Gifford will continue as Managing Director, focusing on long-term growth and strategy. The same people and leadership team are in for the long-term as well. Todd Gifford, said: 

“As a business and as people, we are hugely motivated to do the right thing above all else. Partnering with Evergreen for the long term is the right thing for our customers and the team. The opportunities we have for all Optimising IT stakeholders is huge, and I am looking forward to being a part of the journey for years to come.” 

Any questions?

We know you may have more questions – no problem, we love to talk!

Do feel free to get in touch with us we would love to hear from you.

Thank You

To our clients, team, and partners, thank you for your continued support. Optimising IT is built on the relationships we’ve formed, and we’re excited to begin this new journey.  

Here’s to the future! 

Optimising IT