Ashley Ross, 35
Regional sales manager
Yatala, Queensland, Australia
Ashley Ross has spent nearly two decades in the pool and spa industry, developing expertise across retail, construction and manufacturing sales. Her career began at One Stop Pool and Spa Store in Plano, Texas, where she steadily advanced over 15 years to become general manager. That tenure gave her not only a knowledge of products and customer service but also the confidence to take on greater challenges.
From there, she joined a swimming pool builder, where she oversaw everything from plans and permitting to warranty, scheduling and procurement. “It was a lot to juggle, but so rewarding, and I learned so much,” Ross says.
In 2022, she became regional sales manager for HIDE Exterior Covers. The move allowed her to channel her years of hands-on experience into the manufacturing side of the business. “HIDE Exterior Covers is a fairly small team, meaning we are incredibly tight-knit and work closely together — even though miles and oceans are between us,” she says. “My team, both here in the U.S. and in Australia, have great communication, and we cheer each other on every chance we get.” She finds equal satisfaction in seeing the company’s rapid growth and in the day-to-day opportunities to keep learning, whether about new hardscape materials or evolving landscaping practices.
One of Ross’ defining professional moments came during the 2021 Texas Freeze, while she was still with One Stop. Facing more than 7,000 orders in a matter of weeks with limited parts available, she spearheaded a complete reorganization of operations. “From creating an entirely new two-stage filing system (digital and physical) to creating designated spaces for partial and complete orders, I stayed until 8-10 p.m. almost every day to make sure we were properly equipped to handle the fallout,” she says. Her efforts helped maintain customer trust and kept fulfillment rates remarkably high despite the crisis.
Ross hopes to share her expertise with others through training sessions or panel discussions at industry events. She also envisions opening an independently owned retail store again to directly serve her community.
She is passionate about advancing opportunities for women. “I would love to see more women in our industry, and to see those women supported and uplifted,” Ross says. “I want to be seen for my knowledge and kindness, in equal measure.”
Beyond her professional role, Ross embraces creativity through cross-stitch, embroidery and jewelry making. She also enjoys playing video games and unwinding with historical drama series.
