Global insurance group Howden has completed the integration of Wallace McLean, a firm acquired in July 2022.

This move consolidates Howden's broking operations in New Zealand under a single brand. The integration process culminated with the relocation of all operations to Howden's new premises in Auckland.

As part of this rebranding and integration, Nigel Wallace, formerly of Wallace McLean, has been appointed as the CEO of Howden Broking in New Zealand. In this role, Wallace will oversee both the Wallace McLean business and the original Howden Broking team, reporting to Howden Pacific CEO Matt Bacon.

In addition to these changes, René Hattingh will transition to the position of head of technical delivery. Hattingh's initial focus will be on client service in the scheme and affinity sectors, working under the direct supervision of Nigel Wallace.

“Bringing organisations together, however large or small, is rarely straightforward and always needs to be approached delicately, taking account of the unique attributes each organisation inevitably possesses. That is exactly what we have done here, and I am very comfortable that with this integration, the team really are set up for even greater success into the future,” Bacon said.

In other recent developments, Howden Group founder and CEO David Howden addressed the pressing issue of climate risk management and protection for vulnerable countries at a recent keynote address for COP28.

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