About Ben Stevenson

Freelance Film Director | Cinematic Brand Storytelling | Real People, Real Stories

Ben Stevenson is a UK-based freelance commercial director with nearly 20 years of experience directing high-end campaigns for global brands. Known for his cinematic documentary style, Ben specialises in working with real people—non-actors whose stories resonate with authenticity and emotional impact. Whether filming with an individual craftsman or inside a large international operation, he brings a crafted, visual honesty to every frame.

Ben has worked in over 50 countries for clients including Tesco, Amazon, Mobil 1 and ExxonMobil, delivering commercials and branded content that connect with audiences on a human level. His ability to draw genuine performances from everyday people is matched by his sharp eye for composition and pacing—producing stories that feel real, yet refined.

As founder of the production company When Just Happened, Ben can produce films end-to-end for brands and organisations looking to work directly. He’s also the co-founder of Persona Design, an AI company building digital personas powered by proprietary data—bridging technology, storytelling, and user experience.

This blend of creative leadership and entrepreneurial thinking means Ben understands what it takes not just to make compelling films, but to serve the strategic goals behind them. He’s a collaborative partner to agencies, brands, and in-house teams alike.

Ben studied filmmaking and design at Central Saint Martins and the Royal College of Art. His films have screened at Cannes, the British Museum, and the BFI. His short documentary The Third Column was selected at festivals internationally. Before directing full time, he founded a film-based Augmented Reality company and once drove a vintage car from London to Lagos for charity.