Node4, the Cloud, Data Centre and communications specialist, has completed the acquisition of London-based Premier IT Networks, a provider of secure cloud computing solutions to data-sensitive sectors. This latest strategic acquisition will strengthen Node4’s geographic presence, vertical sector capability and IT expertise, supporting its ambitious plans for further growth.

Under the leadership of Peter Bodley-Scott and Thales Tsailas, Premier IT Networks has grown rapidly since its inception in 2008 to meet the demand for secure cloud computing services in the legal and charity sectors. Its customers include leading Criminal Chambers 25 Bedford Row and 9-12 Bell Yard, and charities Breast Cancer Now and Prostate Cancer UK. Both Peter and Thales will continue to be actively involved in the business.

All of Premier IT Network’s employees will continue to work from its London office and will become part of the Node4 team.  All services currently provided to customers will continue and Premier IT Network customers will now also have access to Node4’s portfolio of cloud computing, colocation, network connectivity, telephony and communications services.

Premier IT Networks is an ISO27001 accredited company and is also an approved user of the Criminal Justice Secure Email Service. This allows people working in the Criminal Justice Service and those working to prevent crime - including public, private and voluntary organisations - to send emails containing information up to an equivalent of ‘Restricted’ (i.e. sensitive data), in a secure way. It is also a member of the G-Cloud procurement framework, which allows the public sector to buy cloud-based services from specialised suppliers.

Andrew Gilbert, CEO at Node4, commented: “The Node4 management team is committed to expanding our presence across the UK, as well as our service portfolio, to support the company’s ambitious growth plans.  This latest acquisition strengthens our  London presence, as well as bringing valuable sector expertise, which will allow us to grow our presence in the legal, not-for-profit and public sectors. Equally important, we are gaining a team of IT experts who share our values and customer-centric approach to business.”

Peter Bodley-Scott, IT Premier Networks commented: “Like Node4, our sights are firmly set on future growth. The acquisition by Node4 will enable us to increase the quality and range of services that we can offer to our cloud customers, which will put us in an excellent position to fulfil our growth potential.  We felt that Node4 was a perfect fit for us in every respect, sharing our ethical approach to business, cultural values and service ethos.”

Premier IT Networks was advised by Grant Thornton, whilst business analysts PwC and lawyers Pinsent Masons worked on behalf of Node4.