Howden, the global insurance intermediary group, has announced the appointment of Chris Hughes as CEO of the firm’s broking business in New Zealand. A media release today said Hughes will report to the CEO of Howden Pacific and will join the firm in November after fulfilling contractual obligations to his current employer.
The release said the firm’s current NZ CEO, Nigel Wallace, will transition to the role of chair of Howden’s local operation.
“We have taken our time to find the right person for this role, and we believe that Chris will provide the leadership Howden needs to continue its growth strategy in New Zealand and the Pacific region,” said Matt Bacon (main picture), CEO Howden Pacific. “This appointment also allows Nigel to step into the role of chair, so that the business can continue to benefit from his valuable wisdom and guidance.”
Hughes said he was excited to be joining the “Howden family.”
“I am especially looking forward to working with the very talented team that exists with the New Zealand business as well continuing to attract likeminded ‘people-first’ businesses, teams and individuals,” he said.
The release said that since entering the country in 2021, Howden has developed rapidly through a combination of strong organic growth and strategic acquisitions.
