Early Life and Education
Michael Anthony Ashcroft was born on March 4, 1946, in Chichester, West Sussex, England. His early years were spent in Belize and Malawi due to his father's work as a British colonial civil servant. He received his education at Norwich School, Royal Grammar School, High Wycombe, and Anglia Ruskin University, where he earned a Higher National Diploma in Business Studies.
Rise to Success
Ashcroft began his entrepreneurial journey in 1972 by founding Michael A. Ashcroft Associates. He expanded his business through strategic acquisitions and divestments, including Uni-Kleen, Hawley Goodall, and ADT Security Services. In 1997, he sold ADT to Tyco International for $6.7 billion, which significantly contributed to his wealth. Ashcroft has also held significant interests in companies like Restore plc, WeAre20:20, and Impellam Group.
Key Business Strategies
Ashcroft's success is attributed to identifying underperforming companies, restructuring them, and making strategic investments. He diversified across sectors and geographies, which proved central to his long-term financial success. His ability to acquire, manage, and sell businesses has been a cornerstone of his wealth accumulation.
Philanthropy
Ashcroft is a dedicated philanthropist, supporting causes close to his heart, and has donated tens of millions of pounds to various charities. He established Crimestoppers, a UK crime-fighting charity, and has a keen interest in supporting education, health, and military causes. He signed The Giving Pledge in 2013, committing to donate a majority of his wealth to charitable causes.
