‘M&A will remain a key part of our strategy’: Ekco UK CEO

Ben Savage talks security-first cloud model, UK mid-market ambitions, and evolving channel approach

Headquartered in Dublin, Republic of Ireland, Ekco is a name that is starting to resonate across the UK channel.

The company opened its UK offices in 2015.

Last month, it appointed Ben Savage as UK CEO last month to drive it in its next phase of growth, according to Eoin Blacklock, co-founder and CEO.

While he just recently onboarded with Ekco, Savage already has wild ambitions for Ekco.

“We’re carving a differentiated position in a crowded market,” he tells CRN.

“We differentiate through offerings, customer experience, and relevance.

“Ekco puts security first; if a customer doesn’t follow best practices, we can’t confidently deliver secure outcomes. That’s unique.”

Over the next six to 12 months, he will strive to sharpen Ekco’s go-to-market positioning in the UK, as he defines the MSP as a security-first cloud provider, compared to a cloud-first provider with added security.

The head of UK sees in the mid-market the land on which the firm can build its future.

But the mid-market is a coveted sector, where many organisations, such as Six Degrees, which ranks number 55 on CRN’s Top VARS 2025 list.

While attracting these customers is reportedly a mission completed in Ireland, where it has “built a strong reputation as a security-first cloud provider”, the company aims to leverage this experience and success to become a leader in the mid-market.

“Large enterprises tend to manage things in-house or through large-scale providers and are already well into their cloud and digital transformation journeys.

“Mid-sized companies, say 100 to 2,000 seats, are still undergoing massive change, with a lot of M&A activity.

“They need help navigating cloud maturity, often in multi-cloud environments, and especially in securing their data. That’s where we come in.”

The organisation also deals with a few UK enterprise clients and manages “everything from workplace services to infrastructure and cloud security.”

Channel relationships

In the UK, the firm mostly collaborates with vendors and technology providers such as Microsoft, Qualys, and Broadcom.

It doesn’t yet work through distribution for growth, but rather for procurement, as it is “very end-user focused.”

But the situation might soon change, as the company is reportedly discussing with a distributor about offering its services via a channel model, especially security services.

“Distributors can’t deliver managed services themselves, so there’s potential in productising what we do,” explains Savage.

“It’s early days but promising.”

Mergers, manpower, and macros

Ekco is currently pursuing acquisitions, which are intrinsic to its strategy.

“Cybersecurity talent is scarce, especially in the UK; hiring ten to 20 skilled professionals organically takes time, which is why M&A will remain a key part of our strategy.”

The purchase of Manchester-based cybersecurity consultancy Predatech last month added eight people to the MSP’s headcount, bringing its number of UK employees to 300.

With 250 new customers gained through the buyout, Ekco now serves 1,000 customers across the UK.

“It supports our growth strategy in security by adding capability in penetration testing, vulnerability assessments, and governance, risk and compliance,” explains the local boss.

Savage cites economic policy – even outside of Ekco’s home market - as a key challenge for his business right now.

“Every business is challenged right now.

“Even within the UK, changes like corporation tax affect us.

“Companies are still adjusting to all these developments.”