UtilitiseIT Breaks Stereotypes: Proving Nice Guys Can Finish First

Steven Gray, the founder and Managing Director of UtilitiseIT, began his journey by contemplating how he could assist other organizations while working at KPMG. Launching the Geelong-based company in 2016, Gray's focus on transformation and expertise in service management and Office 365 made UtilitiseIT stand out. Initially concentrating on helping organizations transition to Windows 10, the company's innovative and creative approach facilitated rapid adoption. Gray's dedication to transformation and client service led UtilitiseIT to become a managed services provider (MSP), experiencing 86% annual growth and earning recognition in the CRN Fast 50. The company's success is not only measured by financial growth but also by its positive impact on community sectors and the nurturing of emerging tech talent.

A fortuitous meeting at a football match led to an unexpected turn of events for Steven Gray and UtilitiseIT. The CEO of Bellarine Community Health, frustrated with the IT management at the business, sought Gray's advice during their conversation. Impressed with Gray's response, the CEO hired him, leading UtilitiseIT to take over the IT system and transition into a managed services provider (MSP). The company's commitment to a team approach and a strong focus on service quality has resulted in 86% annual growth and the renewal of contracts by all clients when due.

UtilitiseIT, under the leadership of Steven Gray, recognizes that challenges in disaster recovery, compliance, security, and other critical functions are not exclusive to enterprises. Sectors like community health and Not For Profit (NFP) face additional hurdles due to limited access to technical resources and budgets for large-scale technology programs. UtilitiseIT, while mindful of revenue and margins, adopts a collaborative "We're in it with you" approach. Gray focuses on finding innovative solutions to enhance the technology platforms of resource-strapped sectors, negotiating with suppliers to drive better cost outcomes for NFPs without exploiting the situation.

UtilitiseIT, led by Steven Gray, prioritizes community support and values alignment over lucrative deals. The company has walked away from potential clients when their values didn't align. In one instance, UtilitiseIT donated a full IT build worth $50,000 to a Not For Profit (NFP), enabling them to continue serving their community. The company's strength lies in developing modern workplace systems and practices. As a Managed Services Provider (MSP) supporting businesses with two to 1000 users, UtilitiseIT's focus on delivering effective services ensured growth during the pandemic. Gray emphasizes the importance of facilitating a smooth transition to remote work for clients and their subsequent return post-lockdowns.

Steven Gray's commitment to community extends to creating opportunities for indigenous people to pursue careers in technology. His personal connection to the Stolen Generation inspired him to launch Land on Heart, a business focused on nurturing emerging tech talent, promoting cultural understanding, and raising awareness of First Nations peoples' customs and identities. Gray's involvement in talent development includes providing internships for Deakin University graduates. UtilitiseIT, under Gray's leadership, exemplifies a business model where success is achieved alongside supporting sectors like community health and Not For Profit (NFP), traditionally facing challenges in accessing quality technology services. This approach also contributes to creating new career opportunities for individuals who may not have access to traditional IT career pathways.