Tony Ash

Dynamic and results-driven professional with over 25+ years of experience in the manufacturing, distribution and sales sectors. Renowned for enhancing profitability and elevating company reputation through innovative strategies and efficient operations. Expertise in team leadership, process optimization, and cultivating strong stakeholder relationships. Committed to continuous improvement and delivering exceptional value to clients and organizations.

Responsibilities:  Developed and executed strategic plans for the coordination and external communication of five laboratories within the National Labs Group.  Led a cohesive management team focused on delivering "best in class" business operations and customer service.  Fostered partnerships with various organizations and shared services to support both internal and external customers effectively.  Ensured seamless interface and communication between the National Labs Group and other stakeholders.  Implemented initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, service quality, and customer satisfaction.

Responsible for the strategy, coordination and external communication for the five laboratories in the National Labs Group within Essilor Labs of America (ELOA). Represents a cohesive team of management staff dedicated to "best in class" business operations and customer service. Partners with other organizations and shared services in order to best support all internal and external customers interfacing with the National Labs Group.

We manufacture the highest quality prescription eye glasses using state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Our facility uses automation, robotics and a proprietary coating technology center to accomplish this. We are a division of Essilor, the world’s largest manufacturer of quality eyewear

Leadership and Oversight: Managed the performance of two regional vice presidents and several senior managers, overseeing day-to-day operations, sales, human resources, and logistics across multiple plants. Operational Efficiency: Regularly traveled to each location to ensure efficient operations and compliance with state guidelines, implementing best practices to optimize productivity. Sales Leadership: Directed and mentored the sales staff, enhancing their product knowledge, reviewing performance metrics, and setting and revising sales goals to drive revenue growth. Account Management: Assumed direct responsibility for opening and maintaining major accounts, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction and long-term business relationships. Strategic Communication: Acted as the primary liaison between managers and the owner, effectively communicating all large purchases, significant facility changes, and other critical issues. Performance Analysis: Analyzed daily sales figures to identify areas of weakness, customer inactivity, and changes in product trends, implementing strategic adjustments to address these areas. Reporting and Advisory: Reported directly to the owner, providing insights and recommendations on major operational and strategic decisions.

Operational Leadership and Strategic Growth: Directed 5 distribution facilities, revitalizing 3 struggling locations with declining sales and high operating costs by enhancing marketing strategies, production processes, and product development. Managed a diverse distribution network serving 3,500 customers across 2,500 product lines, driving significant improvements in corporate performance. Streamlined operations by overseeing the transition to a leading-edge software system, resulting in better order management, accounts handling, and inventory oversight. Expanded global trade by establishing and nurturing vendor relationships through visits to international factories, facilitating the successful import of new products. Executed a strategic closure plan for three locations during a downturn, optimizing inventory allocation and relocating order entry functions. Successfully converted the remaining sites into profitable fabrication centers. Boosted customer service quality by implementing innovative policies and launching a customer appreciation program, enhancing overall satisfaction.