Ashley Martinez

Local Government Affairs Advocate

For over two decades, Ashley has advised local government agencies, nonprofits, startups, and small businesses on navigating complex government systems, securing funding, and communicating with impact. Currently, as an Advocate with California Advocacy, he represents clients before the Governor’s Office, the State Legislature, and various state and local agencies throughout the San Diego region.

Previously, Ashley served as the Manager of Government and Community Relations at San Diego International Airport. There, he spearheaded public engagement for the $3 billion New Terminal One Replacement Project—an outreach program that earned the Airports Council International–North America award for excellence in stakeholder engagement. He also directed the Airport’s federal and state advocacy strategies, conducting over 100 meetings with local elected officials and industry associations to advance critical airport interests.

Earlier in his career, Ashley spent a decade at one of California’s largest public employee unions. He advocated extensively on the state budget process, and developed an expertise on state agency procurement. He managed a diverse policy portfolio including labor, transportation, IT, and cannabis. He began his career in public service as a legislative intern in the California State Assembly.

Ashley holds a bachelor’s degree in Government from California State University, Sacramento. Deeply committed to service, he sits on the Board of Directors for the Pacific Crest Trail Association, where he chairs the Board Governance Committee and serves on the Executive Committee. He also previously served as Board Secretary for the Linda Vista Planning Group in San Diego and chaired its Zoning and Land Use Subcommittee.

Ashley resides in San Diego, CA.