Meet the team

Director

Michael Dobson FCIPD

Michael founded Sapphire HR in November 2018 and leads the business as Director, driving its growth and ensuring it continues to develop in line with its long-term vision.

Alongside overseeing the company’s strategy and development, he also manages a small number of particularly complex HR cases when required.

For Michael, the most rewarding part of his role is supporting business owners through employment disputes, situations that can be highly stressful and uncertain. Offering clear, calm guidance and seeing clients feel more reassured at the end of a conversation is something he finds genuinely fulfilling.

Michael is passionate about the culture that has been built at Sapphire HR. From the beginning, the company adopted the ethos of ‘we do things differently,’ and he believes this still shines through in the team’s commitment to understanding each organisation individually rather than following a one-size-fits-all approach.

Outside of work, Michael is heavily involved in sport and music. As a Newcastle United Football Club season ticket holder for more than 20 years, he enjoys following the team across Europe, as well as watching cricket and boxing.

He’s also a keen long-distance runner, having taken part in the Great North Run on several occasions and previously completing a sub-four-hour marathon. Life at home is kept lively by Murphy, his energetic Sproodle.

Michael is a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, holds a Master’s degree in Human Resource Management from Liverpool John Moores University, and has experience in Employment Tribunals alongside a qualification from BPP.

HR Operations Director

Ashley Gray MCIPD

Ashley joined Sapphire HR in February 2020 and now works as our HR Operations Director, bringing a wealth of expertise in people management, compliance, and client support.

In her role, Ashley oversees the day-to-day running of the Client Portal, ensuring it remains efficient, intuitive, and aligned with the needs of our diverse client base.

Her responsibilities span performance management, data management, learning and development delivery, and ensuring that all HR processes are followed to the highest standard.

Central to her work is close collaboration with clients, building strong relationships, understanding their business challenges, and identifying how Sapphire HR can best support their goals.

For Ashley, the most rewarding part of the job is the opportunity to engage directly with clients and gain insight into the unique ways they operate.

She thrives on the variety and pace that come with her role. She also values the diversity of the Sapphire HR team, where each person brings something different while working together seamlessly.

Outside of work, Ashley spends most of her time with her daughter, with their favourite moments together often spent on sunshine-filled holidays. And, like every proud member of the Sapphire HR team, Ashley is a dedicated Newcastle United Football Club fan.

HR Advisor

Ryan Elliott Assoc CIPD

Ryan joined Sapphire HR in September 2024 and is an integral part of the team as an HR Advisor.

With a calm and practical approach, he acts as the first point of contact for client HR queries, offering advice and guiding clients through a wide range of personnel matters.

Whether responding to calls or helpdesk requests, Ryan ensures clients feel supported from the outset, escalating cases to senior advisors whenever more complex expertise is needed.

Ryan finds the most rewarding aspect of his role is knowing that clients feel reassured and confident after seeking his guidance.

Providing clarity during challenging situations and seeing the relief this brings is what motivates him. He also enjoys being part of a growing organisation, excited to see how Sapphire HR will evolve in the coming year and how his role will develop alongside the team’s expansion.

Outside of work, Ryan is a passionate Newcastle United Football Club fan, often found heading to matches whenever the ballot is in his favour. He’s also an avid follower of the Buffalo Bills, catching games when the late kick-offs allow, ideally accompanied by a pint or two of Guinness.

Away from sport, Ryan is currently immersed in decorating and organising his newly purchased home, something he approaches with enthusiasm and a fair amount of patience. And, as anyone who knows him will attest, he’s always happy to talk about his dog Ralph, who he proudly refers to as his ‘actual child.’

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Michael Dobson FCIPD

Ashley Gray MCIPD

Ryan Elliott Assoc CIPD

HR for real people

LET’S START SOMETHING GOOD TOGETHER

Accreditations