Howden is a global insurance intermediary founded in 1994 that has grown from a three-person specialist operation into one of the world's largest independently-owned international retail insurance brokers. The company operates across more than 100 countries and 56 markets, with over 23,000 employees and a distinctive employee ownership structure: 6,000 employee shareholders collectively own 34% of the business.
The company's core operations span insurance broking, underwriting, and reinsurance services across both retail and specialty markets. Its broking arm, Howden Broking, operates internationally in retail and specialty insurance and reinsurance advisory. DUAL serves as the company's underwriting platform. Service lines include Directors & Officers (D&O) brokerage, marine claims handling, and reinsurance advisory.
Howden's organisational structure reflects its employee ownership model, which shapes its culture around entrepreneurial thinking and deep client relationships. The company emphasises collaborative international teamwork and encourages employees to think and act as owners of the business.
