Howden is a global insurance intermediary with operations spanning the full value chain, from broking through underwriting. Founded in 1994 by David Howden, the company has grown to over 23,000 employees across more than 100 countries and 56 markets. It operates as the largest independently-owned international retail insurance broker, with two main business divisions: Howden Broking, which handles retail and specialty insurance, and DUAL, its underwriting business.
The company maintains a distinctive ownership structure. Approximately 6,000 employees are shareholders, collectively holding 34% of the business. This employee-ownership model shapes the organisation's culture, which emphasises an ownership mindset and entrepreneurial approach across the workforce.
Howden's technical expertise covers insurance broking, underwriting, reinsurance, and claims management. The company maintains significant scale in major markets including Europe and the United States, with operations spanning retail insurance, specialty insurance, and reinsurance sectors.
