Shelly Ashwill-Powers is a transformational senior executive and proven leader with over 30 years of experience in telecommunications, global operations, and large-scale business transformation. She retired in January 2026 after a distinguished 36-year corporate career. Known for driving operational rigor, accelerating execution, and building high-performing organizations, her leadership style combines strategic vision with disciplined execution.
Most recently, Shelly served as the Global SVP of Client Services and Portfolio Management, a role encompassing leadership at both Verizon and HCLTech. At HCLTech, she directed a global client services and project management organization of over 3,000 employees, delivering day-to-day operational support for more than 30,000 enterprise customers, representing approximately $6B in annual revenue across 30+ countries. A key executive contribution included leading one of the telecommunications sector’s largest workforce and operational
transitions, overseeing the successful migration of 6,000 employees and partners from Verizon to HCLTech. During her tenure at Verizon, she also held multiple senior executive roles, leading client services and project management functions for the global enterprise wireline customer base, which included 99% of the Fortune 500.
Shelly is deeply passionate about caring for people and advocating for diversity and inclusion in the workforce. She served as President of Verizon’s global Women’s Employee Resource Group (WAVE) for four years, doubling the program membership globally. She is currently a member of CHIEF and was recently accepted into the Exceptional Women’s Alliance, a C-level women’s
organization headquartered in Los Angeles. She is also active in organizations supporting women in leadership and technology, including Makers and Built By Girls.
Shelly is now transitioning her extensive executive experience to entrepreneurship. She and her business partner are opening three IMAGE Studios in the Phoenix/Scottsdale markets. They are eager to launch into the small business segment, focusing their energy on supporting wellness and beauty professionals.
Shelly is married and has one son, who is an Executive Advisor at Fidelity Investments.