Ashley graduated with a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the UMIST in 2001. Following this he worked for BNFL and then joined BDO Stoy Hayward's London office where he qualified as a Chartered Accountant in its assurance and business advisory department.

During his time at BDO Stoy Hayward, Ashley specialised in property, retail and IT.  He also worked in the litigation, corporate tax and corporate finance departments.

Ashley joined Rickitt Mitchell in 2005 and since then has worked on a range of transactions including disposals, acquisitions, MBOs, BIMBOs and development capital. Sector expertise includes manufacturing, leasing, distribution, engineering, food, IT, green technology and support services.