In Conversation with Steve Prest: From Royal Navy to Strategic Consultancy

Welcome to our new series, 'UDSS in conversation with', where we shine a spotlight on the wealth of defence and security expertise within Universal Defence and Security Solutions (UDSS).

Through in-depth interviews and stories, we’ll explore the unique backgrounds, experiences, and insights of our consultants, showcasing how their knowledge and leadership continue to drive innovation and success in the industry. Each feature will offer a glimpse into the careers of those who help shape the future of defence and security, beginning with Commodore Steve Prest’s remarkable journey from the Royal Navy to strategic consultancy.

Commodore (Ret'd) Steve Prest MEng(Hons) CEng MIET is a former Royal Navy officer who has transitioned from a successful military career to an independent consultant. With 25 years in the Royal Navy and a newly established consultancy, Steve brings a wealth of strategic and leadership experience. This article highlights his career, current work, and vision for the future. 

What Drew Steve to the Navy? 

Steve Prest’s interest in the Royal Navy began early, influenced by his experiences in the Scouts and a fascination with ships. His paternal family were from Cleveland, where Captain James Cook’s legacy was prominent, and he was inspired to pursue a career in the Navy. Reflecting on his motivation, Steve said, “I was drawn to the Navy because I wanted to be part of something bigger, to experience teamwork and a sense of mission. Captain Cook’s decision to join the Navy resonated with me, and it aligned with my own aspirations.” 

A Distinguished Naval Career 

After completing his degree in Electronic and Electrical Engineering at Loughborough University, Steve joined the Royal Navy as a Weapon Engineer Officer. His early shore-based roles included supporting Operation TELIC 1 (the 2003 invasion of Iraq) from the UK and a tour as a Liaison Officer in Afghanistan. He also gained international experience through an exchange with the French Navy. 

Steve’s career at sea included key roles as the Weapon Engineer Officer on HMS WESTMINSTER, where he participated in operations across the Mediterranean, Arabian Gulf, and Indian Ocean. His time on HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH was a significant milestone, helping to bring the ship out of build in Rosyth and home to Portsmouth. “Taking HMS QUEEN ELIZABETH to sea for the first time and growing the Weapon Engineering Department from a few people to over 100 was a major achievement,” Steve recalled. 

Leadership and Legacy 

When not serving in leadership roles at sea, Steve’s career was anchored in Capability and Acquistion management and, especially in major programme leadership. As Programme Director for the Type 31 Frigate Programme and Senior Responsible Owner for the Mine Hunting Capability Programme, he helped advance the Navy’s technological capabilities. “In the Programme Management Office, we became known for successfully delivering major capability change programmes, which was very rewarding,” Steve noted. 

Transition to Consultancy 

In May 2023, Steve transitioned to a new role as Managing Director and Principal Consultant at Alatar Ltd. Based in Fareham, England, Alatar Ltd provides consultancy, advisory, and non-executive services. Steve’s mission is to help organisations and individuals solve complex problems and achieve successful outcomes. “I’ve always enjoyed solving hard problems and working with people, and consultancy allows me to continue doing that,” Steve said. Steve’s self-appointed mission is “to help brilliant people to do amazing things”. 

Alatar Ltd focuses on: 

• Strategy: Developing purpose-driven strategies and stakeholder management. 

• Leadership: Building high-performing teams and driving cultural change. 

• Technology: Turning technology into deployed capability, with a particular expertise in autonomous systems. 

• Delivery: Managing transformational change and complex project delivery. 

Current Work and Impact 

As an independent consultant, Steve draws on his naval experience to tackle challenges in the defence, security, and government sectors. His work includes mentoring, teaching, and supporting projects related to uncrewed and autonomous systems. Steve is also a consultant with Universal Defence and Security Solutions (UDSS), collaborating on significant projects. 

A Vision for the Future 

Steve is focused on using his expertise to drive meaningful change in consultancy. His approach is rooted in solving problems, building effective teams, and supporting innovation in technology and leadership to make a real, practical difference. 

Commodore Steve Prest’s transition from the Royal Navy to consultancy showcases his leadership and problem-solving skills. Through Alatar Ltd and his work with UDSS, he continues to make a positive impact, supporting organisations in delivering successful outcomes. 

Find Alatar Ltd on LinkedIn to find out more. Become a member of Universal Defence and Security Solutions: https://portal.universal-defence.com/register