about us

Expert AI Consultants for Australian SME

Ascend AI is a premier Brisbane-based consultancy dedicated to making the power of Artificial Intelligence accessible and impactful for Small to Medium Enterprises. We are more than just technologists; we are your local partners in transformation, translating complex AI capabilities into practical, high-value solutions that drive real-world efficiency and growth.

Our Story

From Vision to Action

Ascend AI was founded by a collective of seasoned AI engineers, data scientists, and business transformation consultants. We identified a critical gap in the market: while large corporations were leveraging AI, many SME leaders were underserved by solutions that were too generic, complex, or cost-prohibitive.

Our firm was born from a singular vision: to empower the SME sector with the same level of bespoke, sophisticated AI strategy once reserved for top-tier enterprises. We are committed to building long-term partnerships and delivering tangible results.

Our Mission & Values

Your Framework
for Success

Our entire methodology is built on a foundation of strong ethics and a commitment to clear, measurable outcomes. We believe success is achieved through a partnership grounded in shared principles.

Our Mission:

To partner with visionary leaders to design and deliver tailored AI solutions that drive total enterprise process automation and unlock transformative value.

Our Values:
  • Integrity: Complete transparency in every engagement.
  • Clarity: Jargon-free communication focused on business outcomes.
  • Partnership: We work with you, embedding in your business to understand your unique goals.
  • Innovation: Applying creative, practical solutions to your most complex challenges.

A Partnership for Excellence: The Pantheon IQ CoreAlliance Network

To deliver unparalleled expertise and scale, Ascend AI operates as an independently owned and operated Member of the PANTHEON IQ CoreAlliance Network.

This strategic alliance provides us with access to a deep reservoir of industry knowledge, cutting-edge resources, and a network of elite technology partners. This relationship allows us to offer the agility and personalised service of a boutique consultancy, backed by the robust capabilities and proven methodologies of an established industry leader.

Ascend AI

Meet Our Team of AI Experts

Our strength lies in our people. The Ascend AI team represents a formidable group of AI experts in Australia, with proven track records in data science, machine learning, and business process optimisation.

Steve Morris

Founder & Principal Consultant

Steve is the Founder and Director of Ascend AI, with a strong background in business advisory, operational leadership, and transformational change. He brings a unique perspective shaped by a distinguished career in law enforcement, followed by extensive experience as a business owner across multiple SME sectors.

Ryan Morris

Lead AI/Ml Engineer

Ryan is a Technology Consultant at Ascend AI, supporting clients across a range of transformative initiatives including Data and AI strategy, digital systems integration, and business transformation.

pantheon

CoreAlliance Leadership

Warren Beard

Warren Beard has worked in professional services for over two decades. His expertise includes Data and AI, Robotic Process Automation, and Business Transformation. He currently serves as an Adjunct Lecturer in Information Systems at the Auckland Institute of Studies and is pursuing a Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence at the University of Otago.

Sam Pankhurst

Sam has worked in professional services for over 30 years, covering Digital Transformation, Process Automation and Business Transformation. He specialises in enhancing clients’ business processes, using technologies such as AI and automation, to deliver customer-centric operational excellence. Sam is a Chartered Engineer and Six Sigma black belt.

advantage

The Advantage of a Local AI Partner

In a digital-first world, local expertise and accessibility remain a distinct advantage. Choosing Ascend AI for your AI consulting in Brisbane means choosing a partner who understands the nuances of the local business landscape.

We offer:
  • Face-to-face strategy sessions to align on your vision.
  • A deep understanding of the Queensland and Australian markets.
  • Responsive, ongoing support from a team in your own time zone.

Discovery Call

Let’s talk about your AI Ascension

We’re here to have a practical, jargon-free conversation about how AI can create a decisive advantage for your business.

BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION