Meet our co-owners: Ashleigh

How did you come to join Zoonou, and what’s your journey been like over the past 4.5 years?

After studying Media Production at Bournemouth University, I started in the travel industry, working in marketing for a travel agency and a publication. It was the perfect mix of my love for travel, creativity, and event planning. But the impact of COVID was really tough, the opportunities for growth disappeared, and I found myself ready for a fresh start in a brand new industry.

That’s when I came across a Marketing Assistant role at Zoonou. The job ad really aligned with what I was looking for, and the company culture stood out to me. It felt genuine, people-focused, and ambitious in a way that was exciting rather than intimidating. The fact that the office was just down the road felt like a sign!

I’ll happily admit I’m not a techy person, so I definitely had a bit of impostor syndrome going into the interview process. But after my first interview, I could already sense how supportive and friendly the team were, and that this was the place I wanted to be. It didn’t feel like I had to be the most technical person in the room; it felt like somewhere I could learn, grow, and make the role my own (and I quickly realised I should probably learn what functional testing actually meant!).

Over the past few years, my role has evolved in ways I never would have expected. I’ve gone from Marketing Assistant to People and Culture Coordinator, and now to Workplace and Compliance Lead. One of the most refreshing things about working here is how much they genuinely support personal development. They see potential in you (sometimes before you see it in yourself) and encourage you to explore paths you might not have originally planned. My journey hasn’t been a straight line, but that’s exactly what’s made it so rewarding.

What does your current role involve, and what do you enjoy most about it?

It's a real mix of structure and creativity. On the compliance side, I work closely with the team on our ISO and B Corp certifications, and manage other accreditations like Disability Confident and Period Dignity.

I also lead our environmental initiatives, making sure we’re not just talking about impact but actually doing something meaningful.

The other side of my role is all about people and culture. That includes organising awareness days, volunteering and charity initiatives, supporting mental health and wellbeing, planning events, and on-boarding new co-owners into the business.

What I love most is how varied every day is. One minute I might be planning a work experience week, the next working through ISO documentation. Then I could be heading down to the beach for a beach clean or welcoming a new team member on their first day. No two days look the same, and I really thrive on that balance.

And of course, I love planning our team socials. Whether it’s a smaller get-together like pottery painting or shuffleboard, or a full team away day swinging through the trees at Go Ape or stargazing with freshly cooked pizza, I’m in my element. I’m definitely someone who enjoys planning down to the last detail - so seeing everything come together on the day is always the best feeling!

You’ve led much of our B Corp work - why is that something you care about, and what’s it been like to be part of that journey?

I’ll start by saying I’m genuinely so proud to say I work for a B Corp. Whenever friends or family ask me what that actually means, they probably regret it. Once I start talking about it, I don’t stop!

I always get sent photos of the “B” logo out in the wild with a “thought of you” message (which I love!). It feels like I’m doing my small bit to spread awareness.

I didn’t know much about the B Corp movement before we started our journey here. But being part of the process completely changed that. Seeing how collaborative it is, how many different areas of the business it touches, and how everyone can contribute in their own way, really puts things into perspective. Positive change isn’t from one big dramatic action; it’s lots of smaller, consistent actions that add up. Being able to help drive that has been incredibly rewarding.

What I didn’t expect was how much it would influence my personal life too. I’m definitely more conscious about where I spend my money, the businesses I support, and the impact of my choices. It’s really influenced the way I think in the best possible way.

What’s one piece of work at Zoonou that you’re particularly proud of?

One thing I’m especially proud of is our work experience (WEX) programme, particularly the opportunities we’ve created for young girls who are curious about a career in tech. Over the past few years, we’ve hosted multiple WEX weeks and, with the support of the wider team, I’ve been able to shape something that gives students a genuine, honest (and hopefully interesting) insight into what it’s like to work at a software testing company. It’s been so fulfilling to build something that benefits both our team and local students.

My favourite task is the “elevator pitch” challenge. After a session with the sales team, we give students free rein to sell us anything they want in a 60-second pitch. We’ve had some incredible ideas over the years, from the world’s most eco-friendly phone case to a hangover-free wine from a family-run vineyard and the “best bottle of water you’ll ever taste.” The creativity and confidence they bring is always brilliant to see.

Opportunities like this are so important, especially for young girls who might feel intimidated by the tech industry or assume it’s “not for them.” Watching their confidence grow over the week, hearing their feedback, or even having them reach out later to share what they’re doing next is honestly the most rewarding part.

Outside of work, you’re known for being super crafty - what do you love making, and where did that come from?

I’m definitely at my happiest when I’m sewing. I love making my own clothes, and I’ve set myself a challenge to avoid buying new pieces. Instead, I’m aiming to fill my wardrobe with mostly “me-made” items. There’s something really satisfying about wearing something and being able to say, “Thanks, I made it!”

I started sewing during the first lockdown in 2020. I wanted something creative to focus on, so I wasn’t constantly scrolling or staring at a screen. I may have slightly overcommitted at the beginning... I bought a lot (and I mean a lot) of fabric, but I taught myself using loads of YouTube tutorials and just kept practising. It’s the one hobby that really stuck, and I’m still sewing at least once a week.

Quick-fire: favourite musical, favourite cruise destination, and tell us a bit about Kitty!

My favourite movie musical is either Singing in the Rain or La La Land, and my favourite I’ve seen live has got to be Phantom!

Favourite cruise destination? That’s a tough one, as there have been some amazing stops, but as it’s the most recent (and a proper bucket-list moment), it has to be the Amalfi Coast and visiting Pompeii. The views were unreal, and walking through Pompeii was one of those surreal “I can’t believe I’m actually here” experiences.

And Kitty... where do I even begin! I adopted her about four years ago from Bluebell Ridge, and she’s very much the queen of the house. She absolutely loves cheese, my heated blanket, and being indoors in front of the telly - so we’re basically twins!

About Zoonou

Zoonou is a UK-based software testing company. We’re a B Corp and 100% employee owned. We put people and purpose at the heart of everything we do - curious, creative, and collaborative. Want to join us? Check out our careers page.