Ashley Ward Bio

Ashley Ward is a dynamic financial services professional with a proven track record of driving growth through strategic partnerships, relationship development, and operational excellence. As Vice President of Mergers and Acquisitions at Rise Growth Partners, Ashley plays a key role in sourcing and structuring transformative partnerships that help accelerate growth and unlock value for partner RIA firms. Throughout her career, Ashley has successfully managed and transitioned over $70 billion in institutional mortgage servicing assets, bringing deep operational insight to every relationship she cultivates. She has a sharp eye for identifying opportunities and is passionate about aligning Rise’s strategic expertise with the objectives of partner firms to co-create lasting success. Ashley also hosts The What Matters Podcast, where she interviews industry innovators and emerging voices shaping the future of wealth management. She holds a Bachelor of Letters, Arts, & Sciences from The University of Arizona, with an emphasis on Economy and Industry and a minor in Business Administration. Outside of work, Ashley is passionate about cooking, wellness, and fashion—and is always planning her next travel adventure. She lives in Scottsdale, Arizona with her exuberant pug, Tito.