Security integrator’s new chief operations officer outlines the firm’s intentions for next year

Security integrator Integralis has hinted that it will be in the market for acquisitions in 2007, Graham Jones, according to its recently appointed worldwide chief operations officer.

Jones was formerly UK and US operations director at Integralis. He has been credited with steering the firm through a three-year consolidation period and helping to increase profit by 30 per cent in 2005.

Earlier this year, Integralis announced a managed services push with the launch of its Managed Security Services Portfolio (CRN, 23 March), and is focused on a three-way approach to business: product, consultancy and services.

Speaking to CRN, Jones said: “I’m pleased to be promoted, although I’ve been acting chief operations officer since the beginning of the year. If you look at our five [geographical] regions, some are good at product selling and some are good at managed services. I will spend the next six months bringing them all up to a similar level.”

His role includes responsibility for day-to-day country operations, and the support and development of operations in all regions.

“We still have a lot of cash in the bank and have gone into profit this year,” Jones added. “I wouldn’t say we will make an acquisition this year unless something suitable pops up, but our plans for next year do include acquisitions.”

Andrew Lawton, director for northern Europe at vendor Internet Security Systems (ISS), said: “Integralis is an extremely important partner for ISS. It was recently awarded Platinum Partner status as part of our SecurePartner programme. This promotion bares testament to Graham’s indepth technical understanding and market expertise.”