Concept Yachts is a firm anchored in providing innovative, high calibre solutions and services across the maritime industry, with the company priding itself on its ability to craft cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind yachts that bring together the sophistication and elegance of traditional design with the modern technology one would expect from a modern vessel. Yacht & Marine Solutions CEO of the Year 2023 – UK awardee, Kevin Viles is at the helm of this endeavour and his duties include steering the company’s vision, driving its strategy and initiatives, and ensuring that its series of tried and tested values are present across every element of the operation. We have the pleasure of catching up with CEO and awardee Kevin, who tells us more about the business and its distinction within the industry.
Built on the four pillars of innovation, craftsmanship, sustainability, and client-centricity, Concept Yachts possesses an unbridled commitment to push boundaries, crafting vessels that radiate a meticulous attention to detail and unmatched quality, all while minimising its environmental footprint, maximising its use of eco-friendly materials, and surpassing every expectation had by its loyal client base. Since its establishment in 2003, these values have remained true, shifting to manage industry demands.
As the leader of Concept Yachts, Kevin’s style of leadership is defined by guidance and collaboration, having shifted gears from an initially directive approach through to the inclusive and participatory style that today values input from those across the business. There are multiple reasons for this stylistic evolution, such as the invaluable feedback of his fellow team members and inspiration drawn from leaders and mentors from a host of industries. Kevin’s introduction to leadership as well as having to successfully traverse the tides of the ever-changing maritime industry have necessitated this more agile, and ultimately successful, leadership approach.
This has proven necessary, as the boatbuilding team cater to a host of clients across the industry, such as luxury yacht manufacturers, shipyards, and owners who are looking for a vessel boasting exceptional craftsmanship. The approach needed in serving this array of clients is thus complex and multi-faceted, and the team distinguish themselves from the competition in three main ways, by wholly embodying expertise, flexibility, and a client-centric approach. It is the fusion of these factors which comprises Concept Yachts’ unique selling point, with this dedication positioning the business “as the premier choice for clients seeking excellence and reliability in boatbuilding team supply within the maritime sector”.
Driving this success is the team, described by Kevin as being at the “heart of our success, playing an instrumental role in shaping the firm’s achievements and reputation”. All of this hard work and dedication has nurtured an internal culture that is defined by a shared commitment to the areas of excellence, innovation, and teamwork, with Kevin expertly playing his part by reinforcing this culture, leading from the front, promoting transparency, and engaging regularly with the team to listen to their diverse perspectives and foster an entrepreneurial spirit that empowers individuals to take ownership and contribute meaningfully.
Across the industry at present, there are several challenges that have spurred on proactive and adaptable strategies, with one such example being the cyclical nature of the marine market, whereby significant periods of downturn are experienced due to a variety of factors that can impact demand. To remedy this issue, the company has expanded its services to exceed traditional yacht building, with the ‘Concept Industrial’ brand being introduced to support work on larger contracts with the defence, offshore, and renewables industries, weakening the impact of these market fluctuations. Other issues include a skills shortage and an increase in sustainability/environmental regulations, which is why diversification remains steadfast for Kevin and the team.
Throughout his tenure, Kevin’s journey as CEO has been met with both challenges and remarkable opportunities aplenty, with a particularly notable moment being the acquisition of a shipyard in Hampshire, UK, which served to significantly enhance the company’s capabilities and allow for a dedicated production space and the facilitating of smoother operations. In a similar vein, the company acquired ‘the nearly 50-year-old yacht brand’ ‘Southerly Yachts’ which enabled the tapping of a new segment and an increased customer base, and its joint venture in partnership with ‘Infinti Yachts’, bringing to the market the Infiniti Powercat 60 with the state-of-the-art dynamic stability system.
Challenges inevitably surfaced however, particularly regarding the managing of organic growth and sustaining a self-funded business model. Kevin explains, “Navigating organic growth while maintaining quality, innovation, and meeting increasing market demands has been a balancing act. The need to allocate resources efficiently and sustainably scale operations, without compromising on our core values, has been a continuous challenge.” Manoeuvring through such difficulties has aided Kevin exponentially in developing his role, as a more visionary outlook was required while guaranteeing a consistent level of operational excellence and financial security was attained.
Looking ahead to the next 12 months and beyond, a series of exciting initiatives are in the pipeline for Concepts group of companies, with a particular emphasis being placed on expanding the availability of sustainable solutions, such as the designing of next-generation, entirely electric propulsion passenger ferries as well as hybrid car ferries. These endeavours are driven by this dedication to sustainable practise, and as Kevin describes, “These vessels will not only offer eco-friendly transportation alternatives but also showcase our dedication to pioneering technology in the maritime sector.”
An increase in the undertaking of defence contracts is also set to come to fruition in 2024, with the team able to further showcase their expertise by designing and manufacturing specialised vessels, contributing immeasurably to the UK’s defence initiatives through tailored services that rigorously adhere to even the most stringent of specifications. Moreover, there are plans to open new offices in the USA and Europe, expanding Concept Yachts reach and underpinning this commitment in the areas of diversification, innovation, and sustainability.
For Kevin personally, his plans remain largely unchanged, driving growth, innovation, and stellar leadership within the business, beginning with him further deepening his knowledge of the wider sphere, staying abreast of new and exciting technologies, the trends dominating the market, and the shifts making waves within the industry. By continuing to enhance his capabilities as leader, the team is further strengthened, motivated, and plan to spearhead initiatives. Identifying new opportunities is key in solidifying the business’ position. Kevin hopes to achieve this on a global scale, exploring avenues such as international collaboration, breaching new markets, and establishing the brand on a worldwide scale.
In summary, Kevin tells us, “My aim is to continue leading Concepts Group of companies towards greater heights, leveraging my experience, expertise, and passion for the maritime industry. By driving innovation, fostering a strong team culture, and strategically positioning the company for sustained growth, I aspire to build upon our current success and pave the way for an even more impactful and prosperous future.” With this dedication in toe, Kevin Viles has solidified himself as being a worthy recipient of this award, and we wish him and the entire team at Concept Yachts the best of luck for the future, and eagerly await the innovative solutions they pioneer next.
For business enquiries, contact Kevin Viles from Concept Yachts on their website – conceptyachts.com
