John Bennett retires from Howden

Howden UK growth director John Bennett has retired after more than 30 years in the insurance industry.

Bennett oversaw the sale of Lloyd’s broker Windsor to Howden’s parent company Hyperion in 2012, and became chief executive of the combined Lloyd’s broking business, Howden Insurance Brokers, when the two businesses were integrated.

He was appointed director of UK growth and development in January, when Adrian Colosso was named group chief executive.

Bennett will remain as a non-executive director and interim chairman of Howden broking group boards until a permanent chairman has been appointed.

Hyperion Insurance Group chief executive David Howden said: “I have known John for most of my career and we spent many hours putting the deal together to bring Windsor to the group after a long desire to do so.  It is very important to me that we keep his market knowledge and guidance as we look to the future.”

Colosso said: “I am delighted that John has agreed to stay with us as a non-executive director and to chair the boards on an interim basis, allowing us to retain the significant benefits of his long history with the group and experience in the market. He will continue to help us develop our capabilities and expand our offering as we keep pace with emerging client needs.”

Bennett said: “This new role with Howden will allow me to take a step back after 30 years in the market, but to continue to be involved in the group’s strategic direction as we expand and develop, and I am very pleased to remain a part of that journey.”