Howden appoints new group chief people officer

Howden has appointed Kirk Southern as its new group chief people officer.

Southern has served in the role for the last six months on an interim basis and will now hold the position permanently.

The role sees him lead the broker’s people team, which is working to create a global people function that supports the growth of the group.

“I’m absolutely delighted to have been permanently appointed to the role,” Southern said.

“With offices in 55 countries, it’s our people who make this a brilliant place to work, which is why my priorities are clear.

“[This includes] creating a people function for growth that puts our colleagues at the centre of everything we do, enhancing our employee experience through improved systems, processes and data and continuing to attract and retain the best talent.

“We’re a people first business and with 10,000 of us in the UK alone, more than 22,000 worldwide and ambitions to become 40,000, this couldn’t be a more exciting opportunity.”

Experience

Southern has previously held roles at Arrow Global Group as head of reward and HR director for its fund management business.

He has also spent over 15 years working in senior people roles across investment banking, fund management and asset management.

As Howden’s group chief people officer, he will report to David Shalders, group chief operating officer at the broker.

Shalders said: “Southern’s promotion is testament to his achievements not just in the last six months in the job, but over the three years of working at Howden.

“As we look to fulfil our growth ambitions, Southern and his team will be integral to our future success.

“In addition to his appointment, we have recently bolstered our people leadership team with other new hires and I look forward to working with the team to continue making Howden a truly great global company.”