‘As a business owner myself, I know the power of asking the right questions to uncover the challenges holding a management team back. Having built and led businesses of all sizes, I take great satisfaction in mentoring managers—helping them develop the skills and confidence to grow both personally and professionally.’

With 40 years of experience spanning multiple industries, Stephen Wells is a seasoned business leader with a strong focus on lifelong learning and strategic growth. His career has encompassed leadership roles in tobacco, technology, finance, and property, working with both global and local organisations across the Asia-Pacific region, as well as Europe and the US. This extensive international experience has given him a holistic understanding of the challenges businesses face in achieving their strategic goals.

As an entrepreneur, Stephen has founded a finance and property business and co-founded an eco-packaging business, giving him first-hand insight into the pressures and complexities business owners navigate. His eco-packaging company introduced innovative sustainable solutions to the Australian market, including soluble, mushroom-based, and cane-based packaging.

In addition to his commercial ventures, Stephen has held significant leadership and governance roles, including:

• Deputy Chair of an Adult Education College and Chair of an Alternative School, reinforcing his commitment to education and leadership development.
• Non-Executive Director of a Community Radio Station and Member of the Advisory Board Centre, supporting strategic initiatives in media and governance.
• Faculty Member at the Australian Institute of Company Directors, helping shape the next generation of corporate leaders.

With a track record of business growth, market expansion, and governance leadership, Stephen is passionate about helping leaders navigate complexity, scale their businesses, and drive long-term success.

Career highlights:

• Managing Director of his own finance and property business, advising on commercial loans, leases, and property management.
• Asia-Pacific Divisional Leader for US tech companies, where he successfully doubled revenue and aligned regional operations with global headquarters.
• Opened a subsidiary for a British tech company, spearheading market expansion into Europe, South Africa, and Asia, and establishing an Australian subsidiary to drive growth.
• Non-Executive Director for a Road Safety NFP and Vice President of the Royal Automobile Club of Australia, advocating for transport safety and community initiatives.