Steven spent a decade working as navigation officer in the merchant navy. After shifting ashore he advised numerous shipping companies on safety management and security planning. This knowledge has provided the basis for a number of publications, including, "Maritime Security" (with a foreword from International Maritime Organization (IMO) Secretary General Emeritus Mr Mitropoulos) and "Coping With Piracy".

He holds a Master's degree in Communications and PR, which saw research focus on the role of reputation management within the shipping industry. His primary emphasis is on the human element - particularly the ways and means of bringing techniques and effective management to commercial crews, office personnel and operators. He is Maritime Director with the Security Association for the Maritime Industry (SAMI), and founder of the International Dynamic Positioning Operators Association (IDPOA). He is a Member of the Nautical Institute, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and Proprietor of The Athenaeum.