Hannah Smith has taken over as managing director at Red Rock, a managed service provider. Founder Paul James has handed over the reins to Smith, who previously ran the company’s operations. James will transition into a new strategic role, focusing on the company’s long-term strategy and raising its profile.
Smith spoke at a recent breakfast event, where she emphasized the importance of in-person events in the company’s marketing strategy. James, one of the company’s co-founders, became managing director in 2021 and has since built the team and moved the business to a subscription model.
In 2024, the company changed its focus to become a managed provider of IT services and rebranded itself. This shift has been successful, with the company achieving £1 million in turnover for the first time in 2025. The company’s monthly recurring revenue is now £50,000-£55,000, with overall managed services income of £760,000.
James has been working to replace himself as managing director over the past 12 months, allowing him to focus on strategy and raising the company’s profile. Smith will run the company’s day-to-day operations, focusing on the shorter-term, while James will focus on the longer-term.
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James decided to ask Smith to take on the role of managing director based on her strengths and abilities. He believes that Smith is better suited to lead the company into its next stage of growth, citing her ability to bring people together and build strong relationships.
Smith has expressed her excitement about taking on the new role, acknowledging that it will come with challenges and new experiences. She aims to build on the company’s strong foundations, continue developing its people, and improve its processes.
The company has a revenue target of £1.5 million in 2027. Smith believes that diversifying into IT has been a key factor in the company’s success, and she is looking forward to continuing to grow and develop the business.
Having achieved significant milestones, including £1 million in turnover and £760,000 in managed services income, Red Rock is now focused on its next phase of growth, with James, one of three co-founders, transitioning into a strategic role after handing over the reins to 26-year-old Smith, who will lead the company as it continues to evolve and expand its services.
