Ashley was born in 1966 in Bolton, Lancashire. He was educated at Leeds University where he gained a 2:1 classification Bachelor of Engineering Degree in Mechanical Engineering graduating with honours in 1987.
Ashley joined Rolls-Royce PLC’s Graduate Training Program from University working in multiple disciplines within their Civil Engine Business at their Derby, UK head quarters.
During this time Ashley spent extended periods with RR customers world-wide including Cathay Pacific in Hong Kong, Saudia in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and Delta Airlines in Atlanta, USA. During this period he developed his practical, technical and commercial / program management skills.
In 1991, Ashley joined General Electric Aircraft Engines in Wales UK at the former British Airways Engine Maintenance Centre. Ashley translated his skills development on the Rolls-Royce RB211 product to the CFM56, JT8 and JT9 products in managing the technical and commercial issues surrounding aircraft engine maintenance for British Airways, Pakistan International and a number of other GE clients.
In 1995 Ashley co-founded TES Aviation Group. Founded on the principals developed in both RR and GE, TES’ original (and continuing) mission was to help owners and operators of aircraft engines to minimise the technical and commercial risks associated with their aircraft engines whilst at the same time maximising the return on their significant investment. As co-founder Ashley has performed many roles within the business from technical delivery of programs, technical direction, financial management, human resources management and sales & marketing.
In 2007 Ashley spear-headed the sale of a majority stake in TES Aviation to DVB Bank SE. He recognised the need for an alignment with an entity that could not only bring significant funding to the business, but one that had complimentary values and branding, and that could bring a significant network of beneficial opportunities to TES in order to take the business to the next level of performance.
Ashley was appointed as Chief Executive Officer in April 2009 and is now responsible to the Board and the Shareholders for the operating performance, strategic direction and growth of the business in line with shareholder expectations. He heads up an experienced and very focussed senior management team (SMT) who are aligned with one vision; to be “The only choice for Aircraft Engine Global Asset Management Solutions.”
Ashley holds a Diploma in Company Direction from the Institute of Directors (IOD) London which he gained in 2004.
Ashley is married with three children and together they live in the picturesque Vale of Glamorgan area of South Wales. His interests include tennis, squash and golf and trying to keep fit despite the excesses of business travel!