Azure Expert MSP Transparity swallows Microsoft data specialist DataShapa

The group said the deal is part of its aspiration to grow its headcount to more than 300 staff over the next two years

UK-based Transparity Solutions has snapped up Microsoft-focused data and AI specialist DataShapa.

Founded by Alister Jones, DataShapa is a medium-sized consultancy providing strategic consultancy on data, AI and business intelligence solutions for enterprise customers.

Based in the South of England with customers throughout the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, DataShapa have been transforming businesses through maturing the data strategies of its clients since 2016.

The merger will see DataShapa become the specialist data practice within Transparity and deliver benefits the existing customers of both organisations.

For Transparity clients, DataShapa provides expertise in modernising data architecture that enables data-driven cultures, guided by data strategy designed to meet all needs.

"Alister and his team have built an incredible business, with an employee-focused culture very similar to Transparity, a culture that differentiates us in the Microsoft ecosystem," said Transparity CEO, Paul Bolt.

"That means any acquisition we make will need to meet a very high technical and cultural bar and the greatest compliment I can pay the team is that they have met both of these measures.

"We hear first-hand from our customers on the strategic importance of data to their organisations and am excited at the prospect of the combined capability of our organisations to help them."

Transparity to grow staff base

Transparity plans to swell its headcount to more than 300 staff over the next two years, focusing on continued organic growth and strategic acquisitions, such as DataShapa, to widen its reach and depth across the Microsoft Cloud.

It currently employs over 220 staff across the UK and says it is focused on becoming the most respected partner in the UK for Microsoft Cloud Services.

Backed by Beech Tree Private Equity, the group specialises in providing consultancy, development and managed services on Azure, Microsoft Security, Microsoft 365, and Dynamics.

Today, Transparity holds all six Microsoft solution designations, boasts 16 advanced specialisations, an MXDR certified cyber offering as well as the ‘Azure Expert MSP' status.