Stephen Hills

WORK HISTORY

EDUCATION

SKILLS

ABOUT STEPHEN HILLS

My career began at Devonport Royal Dockyard, where I progressed from graduate trainee to project manager on major warship refits before leading the creation of the Devonport Yachts brand — establishing the capability to deliver large bespoke superyacht new builds. Projects there included Sarafsa (82m) and VaVa II (96m), alongside the Global Challenge fleet of ocean-going sailing yachts.I am now Group Commercial Director at Pendennis, with responsibilities across the group’s operating businesses — Pendennis Shipyard, Cockwells, Pendennis Vilanova and Norfolk Interiors. Working across these four distinct companies, my role involves helping shape strategy, commercial structure and operational frameworks so that growth is properly supported by infrastructure, people and process.A particular current focus is supporting the continued growth of Norfolk Interiors and leading the operational and commercial turnaround at Cockwells.My work typically sits at the intersection of technical delivery, commercial structure and organisational development — ensuring that ambition is matched by executable plans and credible market positioning.I remain closely engaged with the wider superyacht sector through long-standing industry relationships and service on the Superyacht UK committee.Outside work I spend as much time as possible on the water, including offshore and Falmouth Working Boat racing and family cruising.