Our Key people

John Wales - Managing Director

Since 1982, John has worked in the travel business in a range of companies from ferry & tour operators to restaurant groups and ticket agents. The vast experience amassed on all sides of the business has contributed to the understanding of the solutions and service standards required by the industry and management and motivation of teams of employees. As well as Encore and theatre, John enjoys good restaurants, fine wines and Leeds United.

Ashley Herman - Director

Ashley Herman began his career in the theatre at the age of 17. He has since produced or co-produced over 35 West End shows. In 1981 he founded Applause, the UK's first travel-trade dedicated ticket agency which grew into one of Europe's largest independent agencies. In 1989, on behalf of Cameron Mackintosh, Ashley launched Theatre Direct International in New York. TDI grew rapidly and is now known as Broadway.com. In 1997 Ashley sold Applause and in 2000, with his colleague John Wales, founded Encore. In addition to Encore, Ashley continues to be involved in theatre production and is Chairman of the World-renowned GSA Conservatoire for Musical Theatre, Acting and Technical Theatre.

Johan Oosterveld - Director of Sales

Johan joined Encore Tickets in January 2002. Having studied business and tourism in The Netherlands, Johan was drawn the vast opportunities of London and lead him to move here in 1995. Since then he has been active in the travel and leisure industry in various sectors including tour operating and hotels, whilst focusing upon his passion for Sales. Johan believes the strength of Encore Tickets lies in the first-class service and knowledge of our Sales and Reservation Team.

Sean Sweeney - Director of Business Development

Sean trained as an Opera Singer at Trinity College of Music and sang professionally before moving to the commercial side of Theatre over 12 years ago. Developing extensive experience in Marketing, Sales, Operations, Call Centres and E-commerce, he was delighted to be one of the first members of Encore Tickets and watch the company grow throughout the last six years. Outside Encore Tickets, Sean has produced numerous shows, both in the West End and for Regional Tours.

Chris Ryan- Director of Marketing

Chris Ryan joined the company in 2006 as part of the merger with Advance Box Office. Chris has ten years experience of production, artist management, marketing and ticketing in the theatre and entertainment industry, latterly as Managing Director of Advance Box Office. Chris believes that one of Encore's great strength is it's dynamism in the market place and he looks forward to developing this through innovative marketing strategies. Chris is currently undertaking an MBA at Henley Management College and in his spare time is a keen follower of the arts, cricket and London Irish RUFC.

Kevin Mansfield - Financial Director

Kevin has worked for Encore Tickets since June 2003, after nearly 12 years in the film industry and 25 years as an accountant. Kevin believes that one of Encore's strength is the experience and diversity of its staff and shareholders. In his free time, Kevin enjoys theatre, film, fishing and shooting.