Charles Ashton

Seasoned Financial Executive and Strategic Advisor

Professional Overview

Charles Ashton is an accomplished financial leader with extensive expertise in financial management, operations, and strategic advisory roles. He currently serves as the Interim Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Spayne Lindsay & Co., a leading boutique investment banking firm. Ashton also holds several non-executive positions, including as a Governor at Tonbridge School and Director at Stour House Consulting.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Interim CFO and COO, Spayne Lindsay & Co. (2024-10-01 to Present)

• Providing strategic financial and operational leadership during a transitional period

• Driving initiatives to optimize financial performance, enhance operational efficiency, and strengthen the firm's competitive position

• Serving as a trusted advisor to the executive team and board of directors

Governor, Tonbridge School (2023-09-01 to Present)

• Providing governance and oversight as a member of the school's governing body

• Contributing to the development and implementation of the school's strategic vision

Director, Stour House Consulting (2023-09-01 to Present)

• Offering strategic advisory services to clients in the financial services and technology sectors

• Leveraging his extensive industry experience to provide insightful guidance and recommendations

Chairman, The Perry Watlington Trust (2006-06-01 to Present)

• Providing leadership and oversight as the Chairman of this charitable organization

Career Progression

Ashton's distinguished career spans over three decades, during which he has held senior financial and leadership roles at prominent financial institutions and advisory firms. Prior to his current positions, he served as the Fractional CFO at hyperTunnel and the European Chief Financial Officer / CFO and Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee at Stifel Financial Corp. He has also held CFO and Deputy CEO roles at N+1 Singer and served as the CFO at Espirito Santo Investment Bank.

Throughout his career, Ashton has demonstrated a strong track record of driving financial and operational excellence, leading transformative initiatives, and contributing to the overall success of the organizations he has been a part of.

Academic Background

Ashton holds a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Accounting and Finance from the University of Warwick, where he graduated with distinction.

Areas of Expertise

• Financial management and reporting

• Strategic planning and execution

• Operational optimization and efficiency

• Mergers, acquisitions, and integrations

• Risk management and compliance

• Diversity and inclusion initiatives

Professional Impact

• Spearheaded the implementation of a robust financial reporting and risk management framework at Stifel Financial Corp., enhancing transparency and financial discipline

• Played a pivotal role in the successful integration of acquired businesses at N+1 Singer, driving synergies and operational improvements

• Served as the Chair of the Diversity and Inclusion Committee at Stifel Financial Corp., leading initiatives to foster a more inclusive and equitable work environment

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, strategic mindset, and proven leadership abilities, Charles Ashton is a respected and versatile financial executive who has consistently delivered positive outcomes for the organizations he has been a part of. His current and ongoing contributions as an Interim CFO and COO, as well as his non-executive roles, underscore his commitment to driving sustainable growth and excellence in the financial services industry.