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Wisenet Acquisition Case Study
What if selling your business doesn’t mean you have to let go of your legacy?
Acquisition Date:
January 2019
Industry:
Higher Education & Training
Location:
Melbourne, Australia
Regional Offices:
New Zealand, Singapore and South Africa
Business Overview
Wisenet, a division of Adapt IT Education, is a trusted provider of premium cloud software solutions for education and training institutions.
With over 800 customers and 5 million students, Wisenet simplifies operations, engages students effectively and drives productivity across the Education and Training sector.
Legacy with Lift-Off
Founded in 1997 by former CEO Ben Hamilton, Wisenet started as a purpose-driven startup in Australia and grew into a leading software provider across the Asia-Pacific region. In 2019, Wisenet found a permanent home through its acquisition by Adapt IT, now part of Omegro, a portfolio within Constellation Software Inc.– CSU:TSX. Alister Smith, with a 15-year tenure with Wisenet assumed the role of CEO when Ben retired at the beginning of 2025.
The acquisition wasn’t the end of the journey for Wisenet, it was a new beginning. The company continued to evolve following its acquisition. The Wisenet company, its people, and its values continued to thrive, powered by long-term and sustainable growth.
“I’m honoured to have stepped into the role of Chief Executive Officer, following in the footsteps of a visionary leader who built a business with purpose, integrity, and deep customer commitment.”
Alister Smith, CEO of Wisenet
A Partner, not a Buyer
Ben sought more than a buyer. He looked for a partner who understood vertical software and honoured Wisenet’s culture.
“I wanted Wisenet to have a permanent and secure home - not just for the business, but for our people, customers, and our values. Omegro offered that continuity and alignment.” - Ben Hamilton
Rather than a quick sale, the focus was legacy, stability, and long-term growth.
What Made it Work?
People-First Process: Ben engaged directly with Omegro’s mergers and acquisitions team before the deal closed. It was open, collaborative, and grounded in mutual respect.
Operational Autonomy: Post-acquisition, Wisenet retained its identity while gaining access to growth levers and best practices.
Strategic Clarity: Omegro articulated Wisenet’s value and fit and delivered on that promise.
“It wasn’t transactional. It was relational.” - Ben Hamilton
From Acquisition to Acceleration
With the backing of Omegro, Wisenet didn’t just maintain its momentum, it accelerated:
Retired two legacy products within Omegro and successfully migrated those customers to Wisenet.
Expanded market share to become the number one product in New Zealand.
Leveraged Omegro’s footprint to win significant government contracts previously out of reach.
“Wisenet was never diluted. It grew stronger. We had the support to scale, but the freedom to lead.” - Ben Hamilton
From Founder to Force Multiplier
Ben continued to lead Wisenet for several years after the acquisition, overseeing growth, mentorship, and leadership succession alongside other key business functions.
“To those considering a future beyond founder-led ownership, I hope this case study offers assurance that legacy, culture, and long-term vision can thrive — with the right people at the helm.” - Alister Smith
Wisenet now serves customers in Africa and the UK, and its leadership transition was a smooth one.
Omegro’s Promise: Built to Last
Omegro’s model is simple, but rare: acquire vertical software businesses and grow them for the long term. Companies are never sold. No flipping. Just focus, support, and scale.
“As we enter this next chapter, my focus remains on staying true to our founding values while continuing to invest in the people, products, and partnerships that drive meaningful results.”
Alister Smith
Get in Touch
Ready to sell your software business and join the Omegro family? Complete this form and a member of our M&A team will contact you as soon as possible.
You’ve built something great. Let’s make it last forever
