Hyperion appoints CEO and COO of Howden Broking Group

25.01.10

18 January 2010: The Hyperion Insurance Group today announces the next step in the development of Howden Broking Group with investment in a global leadership team to spearhead the future growth of the business.

Hyperion’s Chief executive, David Howden, comments: “Howden Broking Group was formed two years ago to bring together all our broking companies. We were a group of businesses with a common DNA but working independently of one another - in some cases with different names. We have worked together to unite our operations across the world and, in 2009, we began a global marketing programme to align us under a single brand.

“Last year our broking revenue grew by 41% despite what has been one of the most challenging markets over recent years. We are looking forward to continuing this trend with further aggressive organic and acquisitive growth.”

Tim Coles has been appointed Howden Broking Group’s Chief Executive Officer.  Tim joined Howden in 2002 and has led its UK retail and global wholesale operations for the past five years. He has driven the business through a tough trading environment delivering 51% growth last year.  His focus on Howden’s distinctive culture and drive to align the global businesses positions him perfectly to manage the combined broking operation.

In addition, Simon Behagg has been recruited as the Howden Broking Group’s Chief Operating Officer. Simon joins from Aon Benfield International where he was Head of Strategy, responsible for developing and implementing strategic operational initiatives.  Prior to this, Simon was the Global Head of Operations within Benfield’s Facultative Solutions Team, part of a four-man executive responsible for running a $40 million turnover business with 12 offices and 100 staff in 10 countries.

Tim comments: “This is an exciting time. We have worked hard to create the growth we are enjoying, which is the product of creating and maintaining an environment in which entrepreneurial and driven individuals, teams or businesses can flourish.  I am delighted to welcome Simon to the team.  He brings the experience, drive, talent and ambition to create a first-class operating model for the Howden Broking Group which is fundamental to underpin our profitable growth.”

Simon Behagg concludes: “Howden Broking Group is a fast growing international organisation, ideally positioned to take advantage of the changes taking place within the markets around the world. I am looking forward to taking the business forward to become a significant global player.”