Otto IT to manage tech environment for NFP Trust for Nature

Otto IT has won a tender to manage the technology environment of Victorian not-for-profit organisation Trust for Nature (TfN) and provide strategic IT leadership through vCIO services.

Megan Visser, Otto IT's chief customer and marketing officer, has stepped into the vCIO role  and will be driving the long-term IT direction for Trust for Nature."

Paul Whiteoak, the chief revenue officer of the Victorian-based MSP - which placed 27th in the 2025 techpartner.news Fast 50 - said cultural and value alignment played a "huge role" in the tender win.

"Our leadership team has a 50/50 gender split, and actively invests in DE&I initiatives within the organisation, which reflects the diversity, inclusivity and sustainability that matter to both organisations," he said.

Jessica Kaaden, the chief operating officer of TfN, echoed these sentiments, saying that one reason Otto IT stood out among other respondents was alignment with the NFP's values.

"Their experience working with purpose-driven organisations and understanding of the not-for-profit sector was a strong differentiator," said Kaaden.

"Otto IT provided a robust combination of managed services and strategic advisory through their vCIO model, ensuring both operational excellence and long-term planning.

"During the RFP process, Otto [also] demonstrated flexibility, transparency, and a genuine commitment to partnership rather than a transactional relationship. These factors gave Trust for Nature confidence that Otto IT could deliver both technical reliability and strategic insight."

IT providers recognising tech impact on NFPs

While TfN - which works to accelerate private land conservation in Victoria and help landowners protect nature on their property - has previously engaged separate MSPs and vCIOs before, Kaaden said what's new is the decision to consolidate these services under a single contract with the aim to "improve accountability, integration, and speed of delivery".

"It’s also the first time Trust for Nature has run an external RFT for IT services - reflecting the central role technology plays in our new five‑year strategy and our commitment to digital transformation and strengthened cybersecurity," she explained to techpartner.news.

Whiteoak said that Otto IT, which counts the likes of Nexus Primary Health, Merri Outreach Support Service and the Victorian Aboriginal Education Association among its existing NFP clients, is "really proud of" building and maintaining many long-term relationships in the space.

"NFPs have unique requirements and often face challenges that are quite different from other sectors: tight budgets, compliance pressures, and the need to do more with less," he said.

Kaaden said that the "strong interest" that TfN saw in the RFP reflects a broader trend of IT providers recognising the NFP sector as an area where technology can create significant social impact.

"Many NFPs are undergoing digital transformation, and providers see this as an opportunity to contribute to meaningful missions and building long-term partnerships in a sector that values trust and collaboration," she said.

'A year of transformation'

Whiteoak said that this year - which saw the company report an FY25 revenue of over $8.5 million - has been a "year of transformation" for Otto IT.

"We’ve doubled down on innovation, particularly in AI and automation, not just for our clients, but within our own business; that investment is already paying off in efficiency and smarter service delivery," he told techpartner.news."

"We also welcomed two new members to our leadership team this year, and the impact they’ve had has been incredible. Fresh perspectives always bring energy, and we’re seeing that ripple through the organisation."