Ashley joined the Practice in 1986 with founders Derek Cox and Jeff Whittam. His early role as print operative/technologist saw him build from genuine grass roots. As he matured and developed in his experience, he took on more and more, eventually leading the entire Morrisons account for many years which continues to be a key client spanning over four decades. Retail has defined his career and his experience in this sector in particular is both diverse and exemplary; he has actively and passionately mentored and supported many colleagues in Retail Architecture over the years which has been a key part of the Practice’s success. Ash has always had a strong belief in providing opportunities for all and has nurtured and facilitated many career stories similar to his own.

In the last ten years Ash’s role has evolved both from the perspective of the projects he’s been involved in and his business acumen. His lifelong passion for Sheffield United saw him form close links with Scarborough Developments and the McCabe family in particular. In addition to a retained role supporting the club with its various property interests/assets, it also led to the Practice’s work on Middlewood Locks in Salford.

From a Practice perspective Ash took on the role of CEO when the second-generation Partnership of three, with Alex Wall and James Kemp, became a Limited Company. This initiated a ten-year succession plan to broaden ownership and leadership of the business, as well as diversification of clients and projects in other sectors. The Practice also undertook a rebrand in 2017 which reverted back to its original name with a fresh forward looking brand identity. Integral to this was a process of defining the company’s mission, vision and values which reflects its heritage but also defined its future; Ash played an instrumental role in supporting this.

Over the last ten years Ash has played a critical leading role in the Practice, working closely with Board Directors Dave Savage, Nick Riley, and Andy Dabbs to manage both day-to-day operations, and support the development of the Business Plan and strategy for the years ahead.

At 55 years old retirement remains someway off for Ash. His departure reflects a personal desire for change and fresh perspective after 38 years. He is keen to explore new opportunities and business interests outside of commercial Architecture and the pressures of leading a relatively large business.

Commenting on this announcement, Ash states, “It’s probably an understatement to say that it’s very difficult to sum up 38 years into a paragraph or two. So many memories of so many great people that I will really miss. Leaving the Practice will be incredibly difficult for me as it’s been such a huge part of my life. I will forever be grateful to Derek Cox and Tim Cocker for giving me the original opportunity and for everyone’s tremendous support along the way.

The Practice is in superb hands, and better placed than ever for long term sustained growth, even within the challenging times we find ourselves in from an external perspective.

When November comes, I will take some time out to rest and shape what the next few years hold”.

Ash was introduced to the practice by co-founder Derek Cox who offered him a temporary role which quickly became a permanent position and saw him develop; later taking on a leadership position working closely with Partner Tim Cocker.

Derek, who remains a close friend of the practice today said.

“Many years ago, I remember interviewing a young, inexperienced but eager Ashley; despite not having a role for him at that point, I was impressed by his earnest enthusiasm. We could see, even at this early stage, that he had potential and qualities that could take him far in the practice, and so it proved. Under Ashley’s leadership, along with the other Directors, the Practice has gone from strength to strength. It was a privilege to work with Ashley and to have him now as a true friend”.

With a long-term Business Plan launched in 2023, this final transitional piece of the succession plan has been well considered and planned, working collaboratively with the entire management team. The Practice has a clear management plan looking forward and will be making further announcements regarding this during the remainder of the year and in advance of Ash leaving.