Ashleigh Burrell

Managing Director | Cape Town

With more than 10 years of experience in the research industry, Ashleigh Burrell serves as the Managing Director of Povaddo (Pty) Ltd, Povaddo’s South African affiliate office. She has played a key role in establishing Povaddo's presence in South Africa, building a strong foundation for the firm's continued growth and expansion.

With a deep understanding of the unique South African market, Ashleigh ensures that Povaddo's research methodologies are culturally relevant and resonate with African audiences. Her passion lies in the art of combining research methodologies to deliver actionable insights for clients and translating complex data into meaningful strategies.

Ashleigh completed a bachelors degree in marketing communication at AAA School of Advertising, the only institution in Africa accredited by the International Advertising Association. Her career path began in a role as an FMCG brand manager where she gained a deep appreciation for understanding the consumer, particularly within the uniquely diverse South African market. Transitioning into the world of boutique insights agencies, Ashleigh gained experience across each stage of the qualitative and quantitative research process. With a wide range of research experience that spans working on projects in the global automotive and pharmaceutical industries to local tourism and SMEs, Ashleigh exhibits a natural curiosity and meticulous attention to detail.

Ashleigh finds deep satisfaction in understanding people's perspectives and unique walks of life, while always seeking a golden thread among audiences. She thrives in a professional, collaborative environment where team members are encouraged to grow and learn, valuing the perspectives and skills that each individual contributes. Witnessing the positive impact that well-conducted research can have on the potential of a business and its consumers is a driving force in her work. Ashleigh’s strong communication skills and commitment to objectivity ensure that Povaddo's outputs are clear, insightful, and impactful.

Ashleigh is a native to Cape Town, South Africa. She and her husband run Flatmountain Coffee Ritualists, a local chain of cafes and coffee roasters.