Sara Hale Appointed Deputy Assay Master as Historic Role Returns After 33 Years
Published: 23rd October 2026
From left to right: Ashley Carson, Assay Master and CEO; Sara Hale, Deputy Assay Master; Charles Turner MBE DL, Chairman
Sheffield Assay Office has announced the appointment of Sara Hale as Deputy Assay Master, marking the reintroduction of a role that has not formed part of the organisation's leadership structure since 1993.
The appointment has particular significance for Assay Master and Chief Executive Ashley Carson, whose mother, Shirley Carson, was the last person to hold the position.
The Deputy Assay Master's Badge of Office, last worn by Shirley before her retirement in 1993, will now return to use after more than three decades.
A Connection to the Office's History
The sterling silver badge was designed and made in 1988 by Sheffield silversmith Jack Spencer. It features the Sheffield Assay Office crest, depicting St Dunstan alongside a silversmith, and bears the Latin inscription Ex Flamma Veritas, meaning "From Flame Comes Truth".
Presented to Shirley Carson in 1988, the badge was worn until her retirement in 1993. Its return marks a connection between the Office's heritage and its future.
Ashley Carson, Assay Master and Chief Executive, said:
"My mother was incredibly proud of her role as Deputy Assay Master, and it is particularly special to see the badge worn again after 33 years.
"Sara has already made a significant contribution to the Office, and I am delighted to see her take on this additional responsibility as we continue to develop the business for the future."
Looking to the Future
Sara joined Sheffield Assay Office in December 2025 as Head of Commercial Operations, bringing extensive experience in commercial leadership and operational management.
Since joining, she has supported the restructuring and development of Analytical Services, strengthened industry relationships and led initiatives to improve operational efficiency and commercial performance.
Her appointment builds on these responsibilities, working alongside Ashley Carson to support the strategic direction and continued development of the Office.
Sara Hale, Deputy Assay Master, said:
"I'm incredibly proud to take on this role, particularly given its history and the personal significance it holds for Ashley and his family.
"Sheffield Assay Office has an extraordinary heritage, and I'm looking forward to building on that reputation, strengthening our services and developing new opportunities to support the long-term future of the organisation."
The reintroduction of the Deputy Assay Master role marks an important milestone for Sheffield Assay Office, combining more than 250 years of heritage with a continued commitment to strong leadership, innovation and future growth.
The Sheffield Assay Office was established in 1773, under an Act of Parliament and today the company assays and hallmarks the precious metals - silver, gold, platinum and palladium. Sheffield Assay Office is one of only four UK assay offices who all work to uphold the Hallmarking Act of 1973 and continue to ensure consumer protection for customers purchasing precious metals.
To find out more about the whole range of services offered by Sheffield Assay Office, such as our hallmarking and analytical services, please email us at info@assayoffice.co.uk or complete the contact form on our website at http://www.assayoffice.co.uk/contact-us ,
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