DataSentinel appoints Peter Ward to boost Australian services
The decision comes as DataSentinel seeks to meet increasing demand for specialist data and analytics services from Australian organisations and aims to enhance its partner ecosystem across the country.
Peter Ward, widely recognised in the data industry, previously established Wardy IT Solutions in 2004, growing it into a prominent SQL Server consulting and managed services provider before its acquisition by MOQdigital, an Australian Stock Exchange-listed company, in 2019. He has since held several advisory and leadership positions within the data and technology sector, including roles at MOQdigital and Dijital Team. Ward is known in professional circles as a long-term Microsoft Data Platform MVP and is regarded as a respected authority on data platform modernisation, analytics, and governance in the region.
Paul Capstick, Chief Executive Officer of DataSentinel, highlighted the significance of Ward's appointment in a statement. "Peter's track record building Wardy IT Solutions into Australia's leading SQL Server consultancy, and guiding multiple technology ventures since, will be invaluable as we deepen our relationships with Australian partners and customers," said Capstick. "He understands the unique pressures IT leaders face, and how partners can bring lasting value to their customers when they're equipped with the right data expertise."
The new appointment is part of DataSentinel's approach to addressing shifts in how organisations manage, govern, and capitalise on data assets. According to analysis from industry bodies, worldwide data and analytics services are forecast to exceed USD $150 billion in 2025, with Australia and New Zealand cited among the fastest-growing markets. IDC research suggests that by 2026, 80% of organisations in the Asia-Pacific region will have formal data governance frameworks in place, prompted by requirements to support artificial intelligence projects and meet stricter regulatory obligations.
In this landscape, Australian businesses are facing increasing complexity. The expansion of cloud platforms, greater data volumes, and growing expectations for real-time insights are contributing to the need for specialist skills and services. Many enterprises now seek partners with a strong technology foundation and the capacity to offer both operational support and strategic guidance.
Founded in New Zealand in 2019, DataSentinel has provided managed database services, consulting, and analytics support across Australasia, formalising its presence in Australia recently. The company now works with a growing base of commercial and public sector clients in both countries. DataSentinel's approach emphasises supporting IT service providers—including managed service providers, system integrators, and cloud specialists—by enabling them to deliver database and analytics solutions without developing in-house capabilities. "Partners are under pressure to broaden their services and address their customers' evolving data needs, especially as generative AI and data science become boardroom priorities," said Capstick. "By working with DataSentinel, they can tap into deep technical expertise while maintaining ownership of the customer relationship."
As Strategic Advisor, Ward will collaborate closely with DataSentinel's leadership, shaping the business's Australian strategy, engaging with partners, and assisting with new service development. "I'm excited to work with DataSentinel's talented team," said Peter Ward. "Their reputation for practical, outcomes-driven database and analytics services is already resonating in Australia. Together we can help more organisations modernise their data estates and use insights to accelerate growth."
The increasing reliance of businesses on data as a strategic asset brings new challenges. Many organisations confront hurdles such as shortages in specialist skills, legacy technology constraints, and a more demanding regulatory environment. "The data landscape is more complex than ever, and businesses are looking for trusted advisors who can help them navigate it," said Ward. "DataSentinel is well positioned to play that role, with a proven track record and a partner-centric model that scales."
DataSentinel anticipates ongoing growth across its Australasian operations and plans to further expand its partnership network in the year ahead. The company aims to assist more Australian organisations in improving their data management, governance, and analysis capabilities in response to evolving market requirements and technological developments.
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Amazon's Project Kuiper looms closer was first posted at Bill Bennett Freelance journalist. Auckland-based Bill Bennett writes technology and business stories that are directly relevant to New Zealand readers. His emphasis is on telecommunications, but he also covers other aspects of technology and business. You can find his features in the New Zealand Herald and hear him regularly on RNZ Nine to Noon and the NZ Tech Podcast. Bennett's The Download Weekly here. If you want to support his work, you can make a donation to his PressPatron account.
