Howden to strengthen Wales presence as it seeks ‘leading competitor’ status in region

Global broking giant Howden has opened a new Swansea office in a bid to further strengthen its foothold in the south and west Wales region.

A statement released yesterday (9 January 2024) said the office would be located in Axis Court, Riverside Business Park, and provide risk advisory services to businesses.

Staff located at the office will be led by regional managing director Gary Stevens, whose ambition is to double the size of the team by the beginning of 2025.

In turn, Howden hopes the office will “become the leading competitor in the commercial broking sector” across the region.

“Howden continues to be a driving force in the insurance industry and our goal is not just to be a significant player within Howden, but also to be the go-to partner for Welsh-based companies seeking high-quality risk advice,” Stevens said.

Stevens, previously of Aston Lark, has over four decades of insurance industry experience having started his career at Zurich in 1983.

“I am thrilled to lead the team in Swansea as we work towards becoming the primary choice for risk advisory services in south and west Wales,” he added.

Ambitions

Howden further stated that a second office in the region was set to open in Spring 2024.

Its presence in the region comes after revealing in July 2023 that it would become a principal partner of The British and Irish Lions rugby union team for the next four years and the official front of jersey sponsor for the upcoming 2025 Lions Tour to Australia.

As part of this partnership, the Wales office will support local teams across the region via the Lions Origin Clubs.

“We aim to have fun while delivering exceptional service to our clients,” said Stevens.

“We’re building a team of highly skilled brokers with expertise in various sectors, including transportation, construction, charity, care, professions, sports and leisure and waste [or] recycling.”