HARROGATE computer services consultancy Oriium has been recognised as one of the region's leading IT support organisations following the award of Microsoft's highest partner- ship status. The certification coincides with the arrival of a number of major new clients, including Smith Smalley Architects and Leeds Trinity and All Saints College. Managing director Chris Kiaie said Oriium achieved one of the highest ever Gold Partner scores - 191 out of a possible 200, with the partner average being 166. He said: "We are particularly gratified at the universally high client approval ratings, since this feedback is the indicator of health for any business."

Chris, 27, founded the Kings Road company in 2007. A key strength was its ability to bring the same skills developed through experience servicing larger organisations to SMEs. He added: "We provide comprehensive IT support to large companies and networks such as North Yorkshire Police Authority, Sure Start Early Learning Centres, Stockport Council and Vale of Whitehorse district council but remain very much a local firm, with a firm commitment to helping Yorkshire SMEs as well."

Oriium bucked the trend during the recession, as companies realised that effective IT support could help see them through a downturn. First year turnover was quintupled, to £238,000 in the second. Margins are a steady 20 per cent and sales of £450,000 are predicted in year three. According to Kiaie, key challenges for the company in a sector that evolves and refines daily, are to stay abreast of technical developments, trends and new service options, as well as constantly enhancing the skills of his team.

HARROGATE computer services consultancy Oriium has been recognised as one of the region's leading IT support organisations following the award of Microsoft's highest partner- ship status. The certification coincides with the arrival of a number of major new clients, including Smith Smalley Architects and Leeds Trinity and All Saints College. Managing director Chris Kiaie said Oriium achieved one of the highest ever Gold Partner scores - 191 out of a possible 200, with the partner average being 166. He said: "We are particularly gratified at the universally high client approval ratings, since this feedback is the indicator of health for any business."

Chris, 27, founded the Kings Road company in 2007. A key strength was its ability to bring the same skills developed through experience servicing larger organisations to SMEs. He added: "We provide comprehensive IT support to large companies and networks such as North Yorkshire Police Authority, Sure Start Early Learning Centres, Stockport Council and Vale of Whitehorse district council but remain very much a local firm, with a firm commitment to helping Yorkshire SMEs as well."

Oriium bucked the trend during the recession, as companies realised that effective IT support could help see them through a downturn. First year turnover was quintupled, to £238,000 in the second. Margins are a steady 20 per cent and sales of £450,000 are predicted in year three. According to Kiaie, key challenges for the company in a sector that evolves and refines daily, are to stay abreast of technical developments, trends and new service options, as well as constantly enhancing the skills of his team.