About Ian

deep-sea diver, former soldier, business founder, and adventurer.
A man standing in front of a sign that says "Kilimanjaro National Park".
A man wearing a brown hat and an orange jacket is standing on a snowy mountain.
about Ian
Three people skiing in the snow.

Ian Hughes has spent his life pushing boundaries

A former Royal Green Jacket, he went on to become a commercial diver and business founder, leading complex operations in high-risk environments.

His career has taken him from the depths of the ocean to the frozen heights of the Seven Summits challenge.

Driven by resilience and a passion for adventure, Ian’s current mission is to complete the Explorers Grand Slam, climbing the highest peak on every continent and skiing to both the North and South Poles.

Alongside the physical challenge, he’s using his expeditions to raise £100,000 for veterans’ mental health, supporting causes close to his own service experience.

For Ian, adventure is more than personal achievement, it’s about inspiring others to step outside their comfort zones and making a lasting difference for those who have served.

30+ Years

Subsea Experience

Career as a commercial diver and offshore leader.

16

Age I Joined the Army

Started with the Royal Green Jackets at 16.

2

Companies Built and Sold

Founded, scaled, and exited high-risk marine businesses

Where Challenge Meets Purpose

I started my journey with the Royal Green Jackets at 16, then spent over 30 years working in high-risk subsea environments. Now I’m pushing for one of the hardest endurance goals in the world: the Explorer’s Grand Slam.

Every climb and every step is about more than reaching a summit. It’s about testing limits, supporting veteran causes, and doing something that matters.