Cycling UK welcomes Ashley Wheaton as new Chair of Trustees
As a passionate cyclist and experienced leader, Ashley brings with him a wealth of experience from across the worlds of tech, entrepreneurship and education. His career includes time at Microsoft, founding and selling his own software business and now serving as Vice-Chancellor at the University College of Estate Management.
Ashley takes over the position of Chair from Janet Atherton, who stepped down last summer due to ill health. Janet has sadly since passed away, but her contributions to Cycling UK will be remembered with tremendous respect and affection.
Ashley Wheaton, Chair of Trustees at Cycling UK, said:
“I am delighted and deeply honoured to be taking on the role of Chair at Cycling UK. This appointment means more to me than any I’ve held in my career.
“It brings together my personal passion for cycling and my professional experience in education, leadership and charity governance. I’ve spent the vast majority of my career supporting learners, and I believe strongly in the power of practical, inclusive education to create long-term change.
“Having personally experienced the vulnerability many people who cycle face – including a serious collision during my regular commute – I know how important and urgent the need for change is.
“In my role as Chair, I am fully committed to improving cycle safety, lifting up the benefits of cycling for society and getting involved with the projects which drive behavioural change. Together, I know we can build and grow a cycling culture that is truly happier, healthier and greener for everyone.”
Notes to editors
- Ashley lives in Maidenhead, Berkshire, and was appointed as Trustee in March 2025.
- He is the Vice Chancellor at University College of Estate Management, where he leads the institution’s ambition to become the Centre of Excellence for Built Environment Education. He has previously worked at Microsoft as Director of Global Learning Services. He was Vice-Chair at JISC and Chair at Young Citizens.
- Cycling UK is the UK’s leading cycling charity. Ride with us for happier, healthier and greener lives.
- Cycling UK enables and inspires people from all backgrounds and abilities to experience cycling’s joys and benefits. We speak up for all who cycle to make sure it’s a safe and easy choice for everyone to travel, explore and have fun. For more information, visit: www.cyclinguk.org
Press contact information
For more information, please contact the national Cycling UK press office www.cyclinguk.org/contact/press-and-media. If you would like to speak to a member of the press office during working hours (0900 - 1700) please call Joshua Gill on 07879 481284 or email [email protected]. Out of hours, call 0148 3238 315
