Ashley Byford Bates
About Ashley Byford Bates
Ashley Byford Bates serves as the Chief Content Officer at ICIS, bringing extensive experience from previous roles at Janes, Thomson Reuters, and Reuters News Agency. With a background in product management and a passion for data-driven innovation, Bates emphasizes customer-centric approaches in product development.
Work at ICIS
Ashley Byford Bates currently serves as Chief Content Officer at ICIS, a position she has held since 2022. Prior to this role, she worked at ICIS as Director of Product from 2016 to 2018 and as Director of Product, Data and Analytics from 2018 to 2022. Her responsibilities have included overseeing product strategy and content development, leveraging her extensive experience in product management and strategy across various sectors.
Previous Experience in Product Management
Before joining ICIS, Ashley held several key positions in product management. She was Senior Director of Product Management at Janes from 2010 to 2011 and Global Head of Proposition Management for Enterprise Risk Management at Thomson Reuters from 2011 to 2013. Additionally, she served as Global Head of Product Strategy and Planning at Reuters News Agency for six months in 2016, and Global Head of Reuters Pictures and Archive Products from 2013 to 2016.
Education and Expertise
Ashley Byford Bates studied at Ardingly College from 1978 to 1989. She then attended Keele University, where she earned a BA (Hons) in History and Ancient History from 1989 to 1993. She furthered her education at the University of Portsmouth, achieving a Master's degree in Digital Design. Her educational background supports her expertise in product development and management, particularly in data-driven environments.
Background and Interests
Ashley has a diverse background that includes being a former member of the Territorial Army. This experience complements her professional career, showcasing her commitment and leadership skills. Outside of work, she enjoys photography, cycling, and paddle boarding. She is also a problem solver and mentor, with a strong passion for product innovation and customer-centric approaches.
Family Life
Ashley Byford Bates is a mother of four children. Balancing her professional responsibilities with family life, she emphasizes the importance of family and personal interests in her overall well-being and approach to work.