Mark Ash bounces back from bike smash with Konica Minolta appointment

Former Samsung and Altodigital executive says industrial and commercial print will have key role to play in 'new normal' as he takes up new role

Four months after breaking his back in two places in a horrific bike smash, print ace Mark Ash has returned to the channel with a new role at Konica Minolta Business Solutions.

The former Samsung and Altodigital head has today been unveiled as the UK director of professional print and industrial print at the Japenese vendor.

On 19 May, Ash was out on his bike when a shunt from a 4x4 sent him flying 70 feet through the air.

Lucky to escape with his life, Ash broke his lower back and at the top near his neck, but is now out of both his spinal and neck braces (the picture above was taken in June). He told CRN that the accident had "reaffirmed my desire to become fitter and stronger than ever, both mentally and physically".

Ash will be working under Konica Minolta Business Solutions UK CEO Rob Ferris, who praised Ash's experience and "sense of purpose".

"He has held senior leadership roles in our industry, both directly with manufacturers and partners, and is an invaluable addition to our UK team," Ferris said.

Ash said his near-death experience, which he documented on LinkedIn (above), had changed his perspective on life.

"People talk about life flashing before you when you have a near death experience. I can't say that happened to me, however I can say that it makes you think about what's important and you refocus on your values," he said.

"You only get one life and are not practising for anything."

"Workwise I'm delighted to have joined Rob Ferris Leadership team at Konica Minolta," he added.

"Rob has a clear vision where the business is headed and our values are aligned. We have great support from the wider business, innovative technology and a business that is embracing change."

Although the print market has been knocked by the pandemic, industrial and professional print have a key role to play in the "new normal" as businesses seek to safely change and adapt their working practices, Ash argued.

"The past will not return and it's important that we recognise this and make the future the way that we want it," he said.