Cohort begins life as Exertis VAD Solutions

Grahame Smee to take MD role of renamed distie as it prepares new UC and security services

Exertis Micro-P is putting the finishing touches to the integration of acquisition Cohort Technology, as the security and comms distributor begins life under its new name: Exertis VAD Solutions.

The buyout was announced in October last year, with Cohort founder Grahame Smee handed a role as boss of the distribution heavyweight's UK value-add division three months ago. Exertis today confirmed the new name for its latest addition, with Smee assuming the post of managing director.

"The introduction of Exertis VAD Solutions is the culmination of the integration of Cohort into Exertis Micro-P. Since the acquisition, our reseller partners have experienced business as usual, while enjoying the many benefits of this united entity," he said.

The newly monikered VAD will be launching a range of new services around its linecard of security, unified communications (UC), and software vendors. A new Exertis Professional Services offering is designed to offer reseller partners support throughout the sales cycle, including product webinars, on-site demos, and telephone support.

This will sit alongside existing services including a Proof of Concept scheme, a round-the-clock helpdesk, vendor training programmes, and managed and deployment services. The distie's vendor partners include ShoreTel, Microsoft, McAfee, Dell, Samsung, and Citrix.

"The opportunity for security, UC, specialist software and services is flourishing," added Smee (pictured). "Exertis VAD Solutions provides a comprehensive package carefully designed to ensure that our reseller partners have all the resources and support they need to respond effectively and knowledgeably to this demand. We believe Exertis VAD Solutions will help our reseller partners both open up and drive new revenue opportunities."