Introducing… our first Digital and AI Strategy Director: Ines Ashton

As one of the UK’s leading food groups, we’re always looking for new ways to strengthen our teams and keep pushing the boundaries of what we do.

Insight is at the heart of everything we do – whether it’s developing the latest on-trend products or finding smarter, more innovative ways to work. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Ines Ashton as our first Digital and AI Strategy Director.

We caught up with Ines to learn more about her background, her vision for Compleat, and how she spends her time outside of work…

Welcome Ines! Tell us about your background?

“I started my career in data and analytics 15 years ago through the Capital One graduate programme. Since then, I’ve built a diverse analytics background across industries, including banking, publishing, oil, pharmaceuticals, and FMCG.

“Before joining Compleat, I spent six years at Mars, spearheading the AI/ML supply chain agenda. During my time there, I delivered two large-scale transformational programmes that enabled Mars to embrace a cognitive supply chain approach—helping them adapt to evolving customer needs while building resilience against supply chain disruptions.”

What are some of your biggest achievements?

“I find it incredibly rewarding to help businesses unlock value through data. One of the projects I’m most proud of at Mars was increasing the throughput capacity of our factory extruders by 10%—without requiring any capital investment. This initiative not only drove significant revenue growth but also delivered environmental benefits by enabling us to produce more while using less energy and water.

“I’m also incredibly proud of my efforts in driving diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As a woman in STEM, I quickly realised the need for more female role models in the industry. To help bridge this gap, I took the initiative to establish several Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) at Mars. Additionally, I actively participate in mentorship programmes, including mentoring young people from underprivileged backgrounds—an experience that is incredibly fulfilling and energising”

What will your new role at The Compleat Food Group entail?

“At The Compleat Food Group, my focus will be on harnessing insight, data, and AI to drive efficiency and innovation across the business. I’ll be developing a tech strategy that seamlessly integrates with our broader business goals, fuelling growth and transformation.

“This includes exploring ways to reduce waste, enhance our responsiveness to customers, and streamline our supply chain. Ultimately, it’s about using technology to elevate what we do best— making food to feel good!”

Tell us about yourself. Any hobbies?

“I’ve been lucky enough to live all over the world, including Austria, Germany, Bulgaria, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France! Now, I’ve settled in Maidenhead with my husband, our two children, and our five beloved fur babies.

“I love staying active, whether it’s horse riding, skiing, or dancing. When I’m not on the move, I enjoy unwinding with a paintbrush in hand, bringing creativity to life in a different way.”

Finally… what’s your favourite Compleat product?

“I am a cheese fanatic, so any one of the 15 Harvey and Brockless goat’s cheeses is my favourite product.”