The international insurance broker Howden has today announced the appointment of insurance veteran Nicolas Aubert (pictured) as CEO, France. Aubert, who has held leadership roles in several countries, is returning to France to lead operations in this key market as Howden continues to expand its European platform.
Commenting on the appointment, Luigi Sturani, regional CEO, Howden Europe, noted that the announcement strengthens Howden’s existing European platform and offers choice to a market “that is crying out for European-focused alternatives”. He also highlighted that the news reflects Howden’s commitment to developing its network across Europe and especially in France, one of the largest broking markets on the continent.
“The first key step in expanding Howden France was to find a respected and credible leader in the market, and Nicolas was a natural fit because of his extensive experience in both the French and UK markets,” he said. “He has a proven track record in managing high profile growth and transformation projects, strong managerial capabilities and industry knowledge that will be invaluable in overseeing the integration of future acquisitions in France.”
Aubert also commented on his new role and said that, when deciding what he wanted to do next, he knew he wanted to build a business. Joining Howden was a great opportunity to be part of a truly entrepreneurial company, he said, and its operations in France will extend Howden’s existing capabilities to better serve clients, in France and all over the world.
“We are eager to grow the business,” Aubert continued. “Our goal is to become one of the top brokers in France with an extensive territorial presence and strong specialties. We will accomplish this by attracting the best entrepreneurial talent and like-minded companies, and by growing organically, supported by Howden’s existing regional platform.”
Howden first opened an office in France in 2019 launching a warranty and indemnity business, Howden M&A France. In 2021, the team saw growth of almost 45%, by policy count, acting on more than 30 transactions with an aggregate value exceeding €12 billion. Howden also serves clients in France through Howden RE, its international reinsurance broker. Facultative reinsurance director Jean F. Fily will continue servicing cedants and captives as an integral part of Howden France’s wider offering.
