Az Big Media will be profiling one of the Most Influential Women in Arizona for 2026 each day leading up to the celebratory dinner on August 20, 2025. Today, meet Ashley Kelley, vice president and senior business relationship manager, not-for-profit, for JPMorgan Chase.
From a field of more than 2,200 women under consideration, the Most Influential Women in Arizona were selected by the editorial board of Az Business magazine and a panel of 12 former Most Influential Women. The Most Influential Women in Arizona Business for 2026 will be honored at a celebratory dinner on Aug. 20, 2026, at Chateau Luxe in Phoenix. The Spotlight Award Sponsor for the Most Influential Women of 2026 is CORE Construction, the Special Gift Sponsor is Tarbell’s, the VIP Sponsor is GCON, the VIP Reception Sponsor is Cullum Homes, the Cover Photo Shoot Sponsor is Greenberg Traurig, the Beverage Sponsor is Arizona Escrow & Financial, the Valet Sponsor in Stevens-Leinweber, the Floral Sponsor is PCL Construction, the Dessert Sponsor is SottoPelle and Tutera Medical, the 360 Photo Booth Sponsor is Clayco, the Step-and -Repeat Sponsor is Morris Hall, the Digital Sponsor is Desert Diamond Casinos, the Floral Provider is PJs Flowers and the Production Sponsor is Merestone.
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Ashley Kelley, vice president and senior business relationship manager, not-for-profit, JPMorgan Chase
Background: With 20+ years in business and commercial banking, Kelley partners with nonprofits and mission-driven organizations to strengthen financial resilience and expand community impact. She advises executive teams and boards on deposit and treasury strategies, lending solutions, and cash-flow optimization aligned with grant cycles, restricted funds, and long-term sustainability. Ashley also mentors internal employees, supporting development and career growth.
Advice to younger self: “It’s OK to make mistakes. You’re going to hear a lot of no’s, but you will succeed anyway. You are stronger and more resilient than you realize, and every setback helps you grow. Your voice, wisdom, and words will create impact and drive change, so don’t stay silent. Speak up—what you have to say matters. Even when you feel at your lowest, you’re still shining. Don’t give up. Keep working hard, give yourself grace, learn from your mistakes, and when you stumble, rise again.”
Surprising fact: “About 15 years ago, I trained and became certified in Reiki energy work. At the time, I was on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and I became interested in the idea that energy can influence how we feel and heal. That curiosity led me to pursue formal training and complete my certification. I don’t currently practice Reiki, but it’s still a meaningful part of my story and something I’m glad I explored. Most people who aren’t very close to me have no idea I ever studied Reiki.”
