Caroline Ashley is a leader in systems change, sustainability, and economic transformation. A socio-economist by background, she has worked across international development, policy research, business innovation, and impact investment, shaping strategies that drive meaningful change.
Her career spans work with governments, NGOs, businesses, and financial institutions, all aimed at transforming economies to be more equitable and sustainable. In Namibia, she played a role in post-apartheid environmental management before pioneering new approaches to pro-poor tourism and value chain development. She has advised development banks, led global teams at Oxfam, and driven systemic transformation at Forum for the Future, tackling climate resilience, social equity, and the role of business in society.
Now, as Director of SteelWatch, she is focused on accelerating climate action in one of the hardest-to-abate sectors, pushing for systemic shifts in finance, policy, and industry practices to ensure the steel sector is on track for decarbonisation.
Caroline’s work is driven by the urgency of climate change and the belief that large-scale economic transformation is both essential and achievable. Her insights into sustainable business models, value chains, and impact measurement offer a critical perspective on the pathways to a just and regenerative future.