Meet the team

Matt is the CEO of Howden Pacific.  Originating from the UK, Matt has spent his time in the insurance industry working in a variety of management, operational, business development and underwriting roles across both broking houses and underwriters in Australia and the UK. Prior to joining Howden, Matt was the CEO of Marsh’s Mercer Marsh Benefits business in the Pacific and JLT’s People Risk Consulting business.

Chris Hughes is a seasoned insurance executive, bringing over three decades of industry experience and a strong track record in strategic leadership and operational excellence. He has held several senior roles overseeing complex and specialist risks, broker and claims operations, profit and loss management, distribution and sales strategy, SME distribution, and personal lines, as well as managing market relationships. Prior to this, he spent many years in broking services and business operations, rising to an executive leadership position.

Praful has over 25 years of experience in introducing and connecting aligned parties, assisting with joint ventures partnerships, financing and advising Blue Chip clients in various businesses on market entry strategies in the Asia/Pacific Region including, general regulatory requirements, business compliance, due diligence, contractual negotiation, infrastructure projects, property funds, joint ventures, trademarks and distribution agreements in Asia Pacific Region.

Nicole brings over 20 years' of insurance experience specialising in risk profiling analysis for large private and publically listed companies, associations and industry bodies. Nicole is responsible for client acquisition across Howden Australia.

Matt is an actuary with more than 15 years of insurance and reinsurance experience across multiple geographies. Matt is focused on climate risk in the Pacific where he has worked with banks, insurers, superannuation funds and corporates to develop innovative solutions to understand, quantify and manage the current and emerging physical, transition and legal risks.

Saula is a senior insurance and People Risk professional with more than 25 years of experience in Fiji, specialising in Employee Benefits, People Risk and Corporate Risk advisory. He advises corporate and public-sector clients on workforce protection programmes, including medical, life, disability, income protection and wellbeing solutions.
Drawing on deep knowledge of the Fijian and Pacific markets, Saula provides strategic guidance on benefits design, claims management, cost containment and employee value propositions. He delivers practical, data-driven solutions that support workforce resilience and long-term business performance.

Maureen is an experienced insurance professional with more than 33 years in the industry, spanning both underwriting and broking. Her background includes 19 years as an underwriter and more than a decade in broking, providing her with a well-rounded perspective on risk, coverage design and insurance strategy.
Throughout her career, Maureen has held a range of leadership and management roles, overseeing complex insurance programmes for large corporate and private business clients. She is known for her client-focused approach, strong industry relationships and ability to deliver tailored risk and insurance solutions.
A trusted advisor within the local business community, Maureen has built longstanding partnerships with both clients and insurers, helping secure effective coverage outcomes while maintaining a strong commitment to service, professionalism and integrity.

Jyotika supports the placement and ongoing management of insurance programmes across a diverse client portfolio. She coordinates renewals, endorsements and policy documentation, while working closely with clients and insurers to deliver accurate, timely and compliant outcomes.
Known for her strong attention to detail and client-focused approach, Jyotika collaborates with brokers and internal teams to support risk placement, resolve complex queries and maintain high service standards. She is committed to continuous professional development and brings a proactive, solutions-focused mindset to every client engagement.

Kalevati brings experience across a diverse range of industries, including banking, manufacturing, legal services and automotive. His career includes roles with leading organisations such as BSP Financial Group, Fiji Development Bank, FMF Foods, Goodman Fielder International, Munro Leys, Howards Law and Asco Motors.
With a strong background in administration, documentation management, stakeholder coordination and client service, Kalevati is known for his professional, detail-oriented approach. His experience in complex corporate environments has equipped him to effectively support clients while maintaining high standards of service and operational excellence.