Howden creates aviation division via double broker acquisition

Howden has acquired two specialist aviation brokers, rebranded them as Howden and merged them to create a new aviation division in the UK. 

The global broker has purchased Leicestershire-based Forbes Insurance and bought the book of business from Hill Aviation Insurance Services, which is based in North Yorkshire. 

In a statement, the firm said that the acquired businesses would be rebranded as Howden and merged to create a new specialist retail aviation division under the Howden UK and Ireland banner. The move will also see a new Howden Leicester office established. 

Forbes Insurance was founded by chief executive Terry Moyes, who will lead Howden’s new aviation team and Leicester office, in 2011 as an independent general insurance broker with specialist experience in aviation clubs, airfield operators, aircraft maintenance businesses, aviation product supplier and manufacturers and gliders and motorgliders. 

Hill Aviation was established by Steve Hill as a general aviation insurance broker in 1991. Hill will retire from the industry after the completion of the deal. 

Extending specialisms

Moyes commented: ”The time was right to provide our clients and employees with greater access to resources, enabling the business to continue to grow. 

”Forming a new aviation division and a new Howden Leicester office for general insurance business is a challenge that the team and I are really looking forward to.” 

Jim Stevenson, regional managing director for the Midlands at Howden UK and Ireland’s commercial division, added: ”I’m delighted to welcome Moyes and the Forbes team to strengthen our East Midlands presence and we look forward to extending our retail specialisms into aviation for commercial and private clients throughout the UK.

”After a short period where he will be working with us on a consultancy basis, we wish Hill a happy and well-earned retirement. He knows the Forbes team are the best in the market to carry on looking after his clients to the high standards he set and Moyes and our Leicester team will ensure his former clients are in safe hands.”