‘There are so many possibilities, but you have to focus on what will deliver real value’ - Air IT CTO on AI adoption and cyber offering

Air IT’s Lee Johnson speaks to CRN about the company’s latest initiatives across key pillars of its service offer

At XChange UK 2025, Lee Johnson, CTO of Air IT, gave us an in-depth look into how the MSP is company is looking to stay ahead of the competition across its dual focus on cybersecurity and AI-driven innovation.

In a lightning round Q&A at the event, Johnson emphasises the importance of differentiation, particularly in the realms of cybersecurity and automation.

“Nearly all managed service providers offer cybersecurity services,” Johnson begins.

“But what sets us apart is the dedicated cybersecurity division we established in 2018, called AirSec.”

The specialist division, made up of cybersecurity experts including penetration testers and Security Operations Centre (SOC) analysts, allows Air IT to handle security incidents with a level of in-house expertise.

According to Johnson, this focus on specialist teams ensures that security is managed by dedicated professionals, rather than overburdened support teams at end-user firms, who are also often handling day-to-day IT services.

Air IT’s focus on security extends beyond staffing.

Johnson also highlights the MSP’s CREST accreditation for penetration testing, a recognition of its rigorous security protocols, and operates in-house SOCs in both the UK and Malaysia.

“This gives us the ability to provide true 24/7 coverage for our clients,” Johnson explains.

More than one way to use AI

While cybersecurity is a cornerstone of Air IT’s services, the company is also exploring mutiple routes to adopting AI.

"We've invested in an AI-enabled automation platform to enhance our service delivery, bringing more self-service capabilities to customers.” Johnson says.

This AI-driven approach aims to make routine processes faster and more cost-effective, both within the business and for clients.

The company’s appointment of Peter Pendlebury as chief AI and automation officer last year was a clear statement of intent in this regard.

Looking forward, Air IT is exploring new ways to make the most of the technology AI to enhance both service delivery and the customer experience.

“This is just one example of how AI can supercharge our services,” he adds, noting that AI is being used to make operations faster and more intelligent, ultimately driving better business outcomes for their customers.

Unsurprisingly, the business is exploring potential routes to market around AI consulting.

Consulting has emerged as one of the key routes for partners to keep on top of their clients’ adoption of the technology, while positioning themselves as trusted long-term partners.

Despite the impressive potential of AI, Johnson is quick to highlight the challenges businesses face when considering AI adoption.

“The biggest challenge is knowing where to start with AI,” he remarks.

“There are so many possibilities, but you have to focus on what will deliver real value.”

For Johnson, the key is identifying the areas where AI can make a tangible difference, whether this is in improving operational efficiency or enhancing customer experiences.

A key theme of the conversation at XChange UK is the role of AI in augmenting human capabilities rather than replacing them.

"The conversations today have reinforced that AI isn’t about replacing people, Johnson concludes.

“It’s about enhancing what they do and making them more effective."