First Focus Acquires Cool Chilli, Expanding IT Leadership and Presence in Canberra

First Focus, Australia’s leading managed IT services provider, is excited to announce the acquisition of Cool Chilli, a respected IT solutions provider known for its commitment to exceptional customer service, based in Canberra.

This acquisition comes as a result of the long-standing connection between First Focus CEO Ross Sardi and Cool Chilli Owner Andrew Smith, forged through their shared involvement in the HTG community (now ConnectWise Evolve). Andrew is widely respected in the IT industry for his leadership, and his relationship with Ross has been instrumental in making this partnership possible.

The acquisition, completed on March 1st, 2025, strengthens First Focus’s ability to deliver best-in-class IT solutions to businesses across Australia. With a new office in Canberra now open, the acquisition also brings additional leadership to First Focus through Andrew’s involvement.

Strengthening Leadership with Andrew as Chief Commercial Officer

As part of the acquisition, Andrew, former owner of Cool Chilli, has been appointed as First Focus’s new Chief Commercial Officer. With years of experience and a stellar reputation in the IT industry, Andrew brings a wealth of expertise to the leadership team. His appointment further enhances First Focus’s ability to support customers with innovative IT solutions and a customer-centric approach, strengthening the company’s position in the market.

Sardi shared his thoughts about the opportunity:

I’m thrilled to welcome Cool Chilli and its clients to First Focus, and also to have Andrew joining our leadership team. I first met Andrew almost 15 years ago through the HTG community (now ConnectWise Evolve), and have always been impressed with his approach to people, technology, and business. Having Andrew and his team join First Focus while also extending our presence into Canberra is a great outcome for everyone.

Expanding Our Presence in Canberra

This acquisition has not only strengthened First Focus’s leadership but also enabled the company to establish a dedicated office location in Canberra. With a local team now in place, First Focus is better positioned to support organisations in the region with on-the-ground expertise, offering enhanced services to local businesses.

All current staff from Cool Chilli are transitioning to First Focus, ensuring continuity of service and maintaining the trusted relationships they have built over the years. This seamless integration ensures that Cool Chilli’s clients will continue to receive the exceptional service they have come to expect.

Smith also expressed his enthusiasm about the acquisition:

The opportunity to join First Focus, the leading Australian Managed Service Provider, is a great outcome and privilege for our clients, my staff and myself. Our clients will see increased service levels, access to more solutions and my staff will thrive in a large mature service organisation. I am excited to join the leadership team and contribute to the growth of First Focus

About First Focus

Founded in 2003, First Focus has been recognised as Australia’s top-rated Managed Service Provider for eight consecutive years on Cloudtango (2018–2025). With a team of over 300 IT experts across Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines, First Focus delivers best-in-class technology solutions tailored to each client’s needs.

This acquisition marks an exciting chapter for both First Focus and Cool Chilli customers, who will benefit from enhanced capabilities, additional resources, and an expanded leadership team—all while maintaining the same commitment to exceptional IT service, now with a stronger presence in Canberra.

For additional information relating to this press release, please contact David Jalkh: david.jalkh@firstfocus.com.au