Howden Hong Kong announces interim CEO and new appointments in Financial Lines and M&A

London, 8 January 2024:  Howden, the global insurance group, today announces that Alfred Sham has stepped up to the position of interim CEO, Hong Kong; and additionally the appointments of Charles Yim, Associate Director, Financial Lines and Hui Ling Wong, Regional Director, M&A will bolster expertise for clients across the region. Effective immediately, both Yim and Wong will report directly to Sham.

Alfred Sham joined Howden in 2013 and has held a variety of roles in Hong Kong and Singapore. He has been a crucial contributor to the region's growth over the past decade, assuming a prominent role in regional M&A opportunities. Sham has served on the Hong Kong Board of Directors since 2018, and brings with him extensive knowledge of both the industry and the group.

Mark Johnson will be stepping down from his role as CEO, Howden Hong Kong, and will remain with the firm to ensure an orderly transition until the spring, when he leaves to join a major insurance company in Hong Kong. 

The strategic hires in Financial Lines and M&A reaffirm Howden's commitment to investing in skills for the benefit of regional and multinational clients.

Charles Yim joins Howden from Teneo, where he served as Associate Director, Financial Advisory. Prior to this, he held a variety of positions including Assistant Vice President, Private Equity M&A, Marsh & McLennan and Consulting Manager, PwC.

Hui Ling Wong joins Howden from Fusion Specialty, a Specialty MGA, where she was a Senior Partner. Previously, Wong spent four years at Aon as Head of Transaction Liability, Asia and prior to this worked as an M&A lawyer in some of the most prestigious law firms in Singapore and Hong Kong. She brings with her over 16 years’ experience in legal and insurance expertise.

Goh Chye Huat, CEO, Howden Asia, said: “These appointments in Hong Kong position us to do more for our clients in the region and capitalise on emerging opportunities in the market. Alfred has played a pivotal role in the expansion of Howden Asia and will now bring this knowledge and leadership to his position as interim CEO, Howden Hong Kong, during this transitional phase.

The addition of Charles Yim and Hui Ling Wong will further strengthen our capabilities as we continue to develop our product lines in the region. They will both be valued additions to the Hong Kong office.”

Alfred Sham, Interim CEO, Howden Hong Kong, added : "Hong Kong continues to be a major financial centre in Asia. As we expand our footprint in the territory through a combination of acquisitions and organic growth, it is imperative that we have a market-leading team supporting us to effectively cater to our clients' needs."