About Derwent

Derwent is a specialist commercial flooring and hygienic wall cladding contractor based in Plymouth, delivering projects across Devon, Cornwall and the wider South West.

From healthcare and education to defence, commercial, industrial and public-sector environments, we work directly with clients and alongside principal contractors to deliver specialist flooring and wall finishes as part of the wider construction programme.

Behind the business is a management team whose experience spans flooring installation, contracts management, operations, commercial development and finance. That combination of practical and commercial knowledge shapes the way we work today: understanding the detail on site while never losing sight of programme, communication, quality and the needs of our clients.

Derwent’s roots are firmly grounded in the flooring trade.

Managing Director Darren Wills began his flooring apprenticeship in 1999, becoming a fully qualified floor fitter in 2005. He progressed to Contracts Manager in 2007 and Branch Manager in 2012, developing an understanding of the industry from installation on site through to project, client and business management.

Following a change in business structure, Derwent Plymouth Limited was incorporated in 2012. Darren was appointed as a Director in 2013 and became Managing Director in 2014.

That journey from apprentice to Managing Director remains an important part of Derwent’s identity. Practical knowledge of the trade sits at the heart of the business, supported by an experienced management team and continued investment in the people, skills and systems required for the future.

Operations Director Steve Hatfield joined Derwent in 2014 and became a Director in 2021, strengthening the operational management of the business as it continued to develop.

Today, Derwent delivers projects across a diverse range of sectors while retaining the practical, straightforward approach on which the business has been built.

1999 – Darren begins his flooring apprenticeship

2005 – Qualifies as a floor fitter

2007 – Becomes Contracts Manager

2012 – Derwent Plymouth Limited incorporated; Darren becomes Branch Manager

2013 – Darren appointed Director

2014 – Darren becomes Managing Director; Steve joins Derwent

2021 – Steve appointed Director

2026 – Kaye joins the business full-time as Commercial Director