250 years of combined experience
Our team
Our team is focused on delivering the highest quality services to our customers in a fast-paced, demanding market. We excel in providing safe, efficient, and reliable solutions
Steve Ashley
DirectorCo-founder of Akona and Akona Concepts, Steve served in the armed forces for 24 years, rising to the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major in the Grenadier Guards. Since then, he has built two successful businesses in training and resource deployment for the events, security and the rail sector. He collaborates with the Ministry of Defence and Department of Education to provide training and employment opportunities through funding initiatives. Steve’s passion is working closely with armed forces resettlement programmes to help veterans transition into their second careers.
Gaynor Ashley
DirectorCo-founder of Akona and Akona Concepts, Gaynor is a highly experienced Finance Director with an extensive background in the banking and finance industries. She has held various positions, including leading commercial roles in various businesses, where she was instrumental in driving financial strategy and operational excellence. Before co-founding Akona, Gaynor’s leadership and expertise helped shape the financial direction of several organisations, providing her with a strong foundation in business management and financial operations.
Jemma Doughty
Training and Sentinel CoordinatorJemma joined Akona in 2015, prior to this she had a background working in the customer service field, she is responsible for overseeing all training and Sentinel coordination. Her role includes organising and managing training programmes, ensuring that staff are fully certified and compliant with industry requirements. Jemma also coordinates Sentinel activities, ensuring that Akona’s workforce meet safety standards equipped to perform at the highest level for our customers. She also oversees the Quality Assurance of the organisation and compliance.
Wayne Owen
Resource and Sentinel CoordinatorWayne is the Resource and Sentinel Coordinator at Akona Concepts, bringing over 20 years of experience in the rail industry. He manages all aspects of the company’s Business Support functions, including Office Management, Compliance, HR, and overseeing Network Rail sponsorship for the deployment teams. Wayne’s extensive background ensures smooth operations and compliance with industry standards, making him a key figure in the success of Akona Concepts projects.
David Challenor
Health & Safety Manager and IQADave was police officer based in Cheshire for 30 years. During that time, as well as policing in the county area he worked throughout the UK as part of counter terrorism and national public disorder operations. He is a qualified teacher, assessor and internal verifier as well as a health & safety training specialist. Dave is employed by Akona to deliver training in all areas of its portfolio for educating learners and as part of the companies quality assurance team.
Marius Hanzak
OLE Engineer and Health & Safety Consultant