About the Author: Ashley Thomson
Professional Journey
Ashley started in business improvement in 1998, working for an Australian consulting company. He honed his skills by optimising corporate giants like Coles Group, Myer, ANZ Bank, Telstra, and Zurich Insurance. This hands-on experience gave him practical insights into the workings of great businesses and the pitfalls of poor performers.
Accolades and Awards
Ashley’s exceptional coaching prowess has earned him a place in the prestigious Coaching Hall of Fame (2019). Additionally, his achievements have been acknowledged through multiple awards, solidifying his reputation as a world-class business coach. He leads a team of award-winning business coaches at Tenfold, setting the gold standard in the industry.
Expertise Across Industries
With diverse experience spanning FMCG, manufacturing, wholesale, distribution, construction, trades, retail, and professional services, Ashley has successfully coached businesses across various sectors. His expertise lies in coaching mature businesses with revenues ranging from $5M to $50M, guiding them through complex financial structures, marketing strategies, operational improvements, and leadership development.
Innovative Problem Solver
Ashley’s background as a convergence task force manager and project manager at leading organisations like Show Ads and NewsCorp – PMP Print equipped him with the skills to streamline complex business functions. His ability to sift through data, identify key business drivers, and provide agile financial models enables businesses to thrive in competitive markets.
Published Author and Global Authority
Ashley’s influence extends far beyond his coaching practice. He co-authored “The Quiet Sales Genius,” a definitive guide to effective sales strategies. He has been featured in prominent publications, podcasts, and conferences, cementing his status as a thought leader in the coaching community.
Ashley’s influence reaches across the globe, with features and accolades from esteemed platforms such as:
Is Your Construction Business Built for the Next Decade of Housing Demand?
The Australian housing market is currently experiencing significant shifts, and builders who do not adapt risk falling behind. Detached houses are no longer the standard option, as medium-density housing is gaining increased prominence. Flats now make up 31% of newly constructed buildings, compared to just 16% of the existing housing stock. This evolution signifies a major change in the way Australians live, presenting a blend of challenges and opportunities for construction businesses. For builders operating within the revenue range of $3 million to $10 million, the question is not solely about keeping up; it is about getting ahead. A construction ...
Builder’s Guide to Strategic Growth: Capitalising on Infill and KDRB Demand
Demand is Shifting Inward The residential construction landscape in Australia is shifting inward. As greenfield land releases become scarce and property owners seek modern, customised homes in their existing suburbs, demand for knock-down rebuilds (KDRBs) and infill development is rising. Builders who position themselves strategically in this market can secure high-value work while optimising long-term growth. In recent years, the landscape of residential housing has witnessed significant shifts, particularly in how prospective buyers approach their housing needs. Traditional detached home construction, once the cornerstone of growth in greenfield estates, has thrived on the fringes of expanding urban areas. However, with ...
Pricing for Profit in a Housing Shortage: Action Smart Builders Can Take Now
The Pressure Cooker Market Australia’s housing market is under immense pressure. According to the latest HIA forecast, the nation needs to construct over 205,000 homes annually to meet demand, yet only 175,000 homes began construction in 2023. This shortfall has led to a spike in demand for residential builders, especially those specialising in knock-down rebuilds and custom homes in established suburbs where land is limited. For builders in this space, there’s no shortage of work available. Inquiries are flooding in, and projects are stacking up for months, sometimes years. However, being busy doesn’t equate to being profitable. Without a strategic ...
Trade Services Labour Demand | March – May 2025
In this briefing:Update on labour demand for the period March - May 2025The Tenfold Construction Job Index tracks levels of demand for roles in key trades. By tracking the number of jobs ads for tradie roles of plumbers , electricians, landscapers, and carpenters, we keep our clients informed and provide relevant insights to support recruitment strategies.Here's what tradies need to know about the labour trends of the quarter for March - May 2025.Labour Demand for ElectriciansDemand for electricians continues to remain high: What the data tells us: Electricians continue to be the most in demand of all the trades. This ...
Construction Work Is Booming in Victoria – Here’s How Smart Builders Are Managing Site Delays and Cost Pressures
Victoria’s construction industry is booming, with demand stronger than ever. The latest market forecasts indicate a significant increase in new home builds and infrastructure projects, fueled by population growth and anticipated interest rate cuts. For established residential builders, this boom presents both opportunities and challenges. Rising costs, supply chain disruptions, and unpredictable site delays can jeopardise profitability if not managed effectively. Smart builders recognise that success isn’t just about meeting demand, it’s about exercising control. Whether it’s negotiating with suppliers, addressing labour shortages, or managing price volatility, the best builders in the industry are taking proactive measures to protect their ...
How Builders Can Prepare for Interest Rate Cuts in 2025: Strategic Advice for Growth
The Australian construction industry has navigated a challenging few years, but as interest rates begin to ease in 2025, there’s a real opportunity for residential builders to position themselves for growth. While lower rates signal increased buyer confidence and potential project expansion, strategic preparation is key to making the most of these conditions. Builders who take a proactive approach, strengthening their financial foundations, refining operations, and enhancing their market positioning, will be best placed to capitalise on these shifting economic conditions. I’m Ashley Thomson, a construction business coach who works with residential builders to help them strengthen their businesses and ...
Communication Guide for Builders: Managing Clients, Trades, and Stakeholders on Residential Builds
In the construction industry, effective communication plays a vital role alongside technical expertise. For owner-operators running residential building businesses, clear and structured communication can transform a project from potentially challenging to an enjoyable experience. When involved in knockdown rebuild projects, especially with custom homes designed by talented third-party architects, builders have the opportunity to collaborate with multiple stakeholders, each bringing their own valuable expectations, priorities, and insights. This dynamic environment fosters creativity and innovation, ensuring that projects are not only well-managed but also exceed everyone's aspirations. Growing a successful construction business requires more than just delivering high-quality builds; it demands ...
Avoiding the ‘Feast and Famine’ Cycle: How Builders Can Maintain a Steady Pipeline of High-Value Projects
If you’ve ever felt like your construction business experiences a mix of busy times and quieter moments, you’re in good company! Many builders navigate the rhythm of the feast and famine cycle, where intense projects bring excitement and growth, followed by opportunities to reflect and strategise for future success. Embracing this ebb and flow can empower even the most experienced business owners to chart a clear path towards a bright and thriving future. As a builders business coach, I work with construction companies that are ready to break free from this cycle and create a predictable, profitable pipeline of high-value ...
Plumbing Recruitment Red Flags: Common Mistakes Plumbing Businesses Make When Recruiting (and How to Avoid Them)
Recruiting for a plumbing business isn't simply about hiring a few workers to fill positions; it encompasses the broader objective of building a strong, capable team that is motivated to drive long-term growth and success for the organisation. Every individual role within the team contributes unique value to the business as a whole, ensuring not only smooth operations but also fostering financial stability and promoting a high level of customer satisfaction, which is essential in maintaining a positive reputation in the industry. Apprentices bring fresh energy and learning potential, laying the groundwork for future skilled tradespeople. Qualified plumbers guarantee high-quality ...
5 Operational Bottlenecks Holding Plumbing Businesses Back (And How to Fix Them)
Navigating Growth Challenges in Your Plumbing Business Growing a plumbing business comes with a multitude of challenges that can be daunting for even the most experienced entrepreneurs. From managing cash flow effectively to ensuring that technicians are scheduled efficiently, various operational bottlenecks can significantly slow down progress and limit overall profitability. The good news, however, is that these obstacles are not permanent fixtures of the industry. By identifying common issues that frequently arise and implementing smart, strategic solutions tailored to your specific business needs, your plumbing business can not only overcome these setbacks but also continue to thrive and achieve ...
