BlakYaks Company Profile

Background

BlakYaks, established in 2021, is a UK-based cloud-native consulting, engineering, and managed services firm specializing in fully automated Microsoft Azure solutions. The company's mission is to provide platforms for businesses to build and modernize their applications, fostering innovation through cloud-native technology. BlakYaks aims to become an industry leader in facilitating the transition to serverless platforms, recognizing the growing importance of this shift in the evolving technological landscape.

Key Strategic Focus

BlakYaks concentrates on delivering high-quality Azure solutions that are cost-effective and scalable. The company emphasizes:

• Azure Platform Expertise: Deep knowledge in Microsoft Azure, enabling the design and deployment of secure and compliant cloud platforms.

• Automation and Infrastructure as Code (IaC): Utilizing GitOps, DevSecOps, containerization, and IaC to streamline operations and enhance security.

• Tailored Solutions: Offering end-to-end cloud-native solutions customized to meet each client's specific needs, optimizing costs and accelerating cloud-native adoption.

• Pre-engineered Azure Quality Solutions (PAQS): Developing ready-made solutions for rapid deployment, including:

• DevOps & IaC Bootstrap

• Azure Landing Zones

• Enterprise Container Platforms

• Azure OpenAI Rapid Start

• Azure Developer Enablement

• ADO to GitHub Transition

Financials and Funding

In March 2025, BlakYaks was acquired by Proact IT Group AB, a Nasdaq-listed company headquartered in Stockholm, for an initial consideration of £16 million, with a potential earn-out of up to £11 million, subject to financial targets over 2025–2027. Prior to the acquisition, BlakYaks reported a revenue of £5.6 million and an EBITA of £1.5 million for the twelve months ending February 2025.

Technological Platform and Innovation

BlakYaks distinguishes itself through:

• Proprietary Technologies: Development of pre-engineered Azure solutions (PAQS) for accelerated deployment.

• Scientific Methods: Implementation of GitOps, DevSecOps, containerization, and IaC to ensure secure and efficient cloud operations.

• Certifications: Achieved Microsoft Solutions Partner Designations in Data & AI and Security, Kubernetes on Microsoft Azure Specialization, and became a Kubernetes Certified Service Provider (KCSP).

Leadership Team

• Dirk Anderson: CEO, leading the company's strategic direction and growth initiatives.

• Stuart Anderson: Co-founder, contributing to the company's technical vision and service delivery.

Leadership Changes

As of March 2025, BlakYaks became part of Proact Group, with the existing leadership team continuing to operate under the new ownership, maintaining the company's focus and culture.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The cloud-native services market is experiencing significant growth, driven by enterprises' need for scalable, secure, and cost-effective cloud solutions. The adoption of Microsoft Azure and related technologies is expanding, creating opportunities for specialized service providers.

Competitor Analysis

BlakYaks operates in a competitive landscape with several key players:

• Ubi Transport: Focuses on cloud-based transportation solutions.

• Evolbe: Specializes in cloud transformation services.

• iVoyant: Provides cloud-native development and consulting services.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

BlakYaks has established significant partnerships to enhance its service offerings:

• Microsoft: Achieved multiple Solutions Partner Designations and specializations, reflecting deep collaboration.

• Red Hat: Partnered with a focus on Azure Red Hat OpenShift (ARO) and Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL).

• Daisy Group: Integrated into Daisy Group's Cloud Portfolio for App Innovation.

• Bytes: Collaborated on delivering app modernization projects.

• Six Degrees: Channel partnership focusing on security solutions.

• Arreoblue: Channel partnership for Data & AI services for enterprises.

• Pax8: Engaged as an Indirect CSP Provider.

Operational Insights

BlakYaks differentiates itself through:

• Agile Project Delivery: Utilizing a squad-based structure for flexible and responsive project execution.

• Security-First Approach: Implementing "Secure by Design" principles to ensure robust security in cloud deployments.

• Comprehensive Service Lifecycle: Offering services from assessment and design to build and operate phases, tailored to client needs.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Under Proact's ownership, BlakYaks is positioned to:

• Expand Service Offerings: Leverage Proact's resources to scale services and support more customers in cloud transformation journeys.

• Accelerate Innovation: Enhance research and development efforts to introduce new solutions and technologies.

• Strengthen Market Position: Utilize Proact's established presence to penetrate new markets and sectors.

Contact Information

• Website: blakyaks.com

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/blakyaks