Our people

James Kay

Director | W&I

James has over 8 years of experience providing bespoke insurance solutions to global M&A transactions. Before Howden, James was a senior member of other leading brokers including Marsh JLT working in both their London and Singapore offices. James is a qualified solicitor having practiced with Norton Rose Fulbright LLP until 2015. Whilst at Marsh JLT he was a Regional Assistant Director for Asia with direct responsibility for all South Asian M&A insurance solutions. James has placed numerous M&A policies for Asian clients including sovereign wealth funds, major corporate entities and private equity entrants. He successfully placed the first ever insurance policy for a Papua New Guinea insured transaction.

Email: [email protected]

Simon Worker

Director | W&I

Simon is a Director at Howden M&A. Simon worked in Howden M&A’s London office for 5 years before relocating to Hong Kong to establish the Hong Kong office in 2022. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Simon worked in the corporate finance and investment banking industries for 6 years, initially at PwC and then at Cameron Partners (Rothschild's strategic alliance partner in New Zealand). At Howden M&A Simon works on transactions across all industries with a particular focus on placing policies for private equity client acquiring complex multi-jurisdictional targets. Simon has a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Arts (Economics), both from the University of Otago in New Zealand. Outside of work Simon enjoys spending time with his young family exploring the many hiking trails of Hong Kong.

Email: [email protected]

Tze Yang Goh

Director | W&I

Tze Yang Goh is a Director in the Howden M&A Singapore office. Prior to joining, Tze Yang qualified as an advocate and solicitor at Allen & Gledhill LLP, Corporate Mergers and Acquisitions department. At Howden M&A, Tze Yang is responsible for developing our Asian business and has worked on numerous cross-border transactions with an Asian element.

Email: [email protected]

Aïmane Gannouf

Analyst | W&I

Aïmane is an Analyst in the Howden M&A Benelux team. Prior to joining Howden, Aïmane worked as a legal counsel at the Rabobank and gained work experience at several prestigious law firms. Aïmane studied financial law and corporate law at Leiden University in addition to which he participated in the Columbia Summer Program in American Law and spent a semester abroad studying Chinese Law at Peking University. Aïmane is fluent in Dutch and English.

Email: [email protected]

Aimee Vanessa Hirwa

Analyst | W&I

Email: [email protected]

Charlotte Ziedorn

Senior Associate | W&I

Charlotte is a Senior Associate in the Howden M&A Benelux team. Prior to joining Howden, Charlotte worked as a Financial Analyst in the Venture Capital sector at Rocket Internet in Berlin where she focused on the administration of investment funds and coordination of start-up investments. Charlotte has a Master’s degree in Finance & Investments from Rotterdam School of Management, Erasmus University, and completed an education as assistant tax consultant at EY in Germany. Charlotte is fluent in German, English, and Dutch.

Email: [email protected]

Fatima Mohemmed

Associate Director | W&I

Fatima is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Fatima was responsible for AML and ABC compliance at ING bank. Fatima holds a Master’s degree from Leiden University specializing in corporate and civil law. During her studies Fatima gained experience at top law firms in the Netherlands and spent a semester studying American Law at the University of Connecticut. Fatima is fluent in Dutch, English and Arabic.

Email: [email protected]

Frederik Veldhuijzen

Managing Director | W&I

Frederik is a Managing Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Frederik worked at De Brauw Blackstone Westbroek where he focussed primarily on national and cross-border private equity transactions. At Howden M&A Frederik leads our Benelux business, utilising his experience as an M&A attorney to advise clients on M&A insurance (structuring) solutions for their transactions. Frederik has a Masters of Law degree from the University of Utrecht and is fluent in Dutch and English.

Email: [email protected]

Gauthier Drion

Executive Director | W&I

Gauthier is an Executive Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Gauthier worked as a corporate M&A lawyer at Stibbe in Brussels. At Howden M&A, Gauthier works in the Benelux team where he advises clients with regard to the provision of a range of M&A insurance products, including Warranty & Indemnity (W&I) and specific identified risk insurance. Gauthier has a LL.B. from Université Saint-Louis and a Masters in Law degree from Université catholique de Louvain, and is fluent in English, French and Dutch.

Email: [email protected]

Joe Mathis

Associate Director | W&I

Luca Babovic

Analyst | W&I

Luca is an Analyst at the Howden M&A Benelux office. Prior to joining Howden, Luca completed his degree in Politics, Psychology, Law and Economics, where he focused his studies on the intersection between Law and Finance. He is fluent in Croatian and Dutch. Outside of the office, Luca enjoys film, music and culture.

Email: [email protected]

Raphaël Delsaux

Associate Director | W&I

Raphaël is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Raphaël worked as a corporate M&A lawyer at Stibbe in Brussels. At Howden M&A, Raphaël works in the Benelux team where he advises clients with regard to the provision of a range of M&A insurance products, including Warranty & Indemnity (W&I) and specific identified risk insurance. Raphaël has a LL.M. from Trinity College Dublin and a Masters of Law degree from the Université Libre de Bruxelles and is fluent in French and English.

Email: [email protected]

Simone Leegwater

Senior Associate | W&I

Simone is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Simone gained work experience at top law firms in the Netherlands, as well as academic experience at Utrecht University and Erasmus University Rotterdam. Simone holds two Bachelor degrees in Law with extra courses in Business and two Master Degrees specializing in Corporate and Criminal Law. Simone speaks Dutch, English, French and German. At Howden M&A, Simone works in the Benelux team where she focuses on advising clients with regard to the provision of a range of M&A insurance products, including W&I insurance.

Email: [email protected]

Wibout Rustenburg

Analyst | W&I

Email: [email protected]

Enrique Sadler

Senior Associate | W&I

Enrique is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Enrique worked at First Title as a legal indemnity underwriter, providing bespoke insurance solutions for high value and complex real estate transactions across CEE and Western Europe. At Howden M&A, Enrique advises on the placement of W&I insurance policies for real estate and operational transactions across CEE. Enrique has a BA in Economics with French from the University of Durham, and is fluent in French and Spanish.

Email: [email protected]

Joanna Grala

Associate | W&I

Joanna advises on the placement of W&I insurance policies in M&A and real properties transactions across the CEE region. Before joining Howden M&A, Joanna worked for a leading Polish developer and in international law firms including Dentons, where she focused on real estate transactions involving asset and share deals and JV investments.
Joanna is an Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining us, Joanna worked for a leading Polish developer and in international law firms including Dentons, where she focused on real estate transactions involving asset and share deals and JV investments. Joanna holds an MA in Law from the University of Warsaw as well as an MA in Finance and Accounting from the SGH Warsaw School of Economics. Before her master’ degrees, Joanna graduated from the American Law Centre. At Howden M&A, Joanna is based in the Warsaw office of the CEE team and advises on the placement of W&I insurance policies in M&A and real properties transactions across the CEE region. She is fluent in Polish and English. Outside of work, Joanna enjoys travelling and is a paddle tennis and skiing enthusiast.

Email: [email protected]

Julia Mikler-Mieszkiello

Executive Director | Head of Central and Eastern Europe

Julia is an Executive Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Julia worked at Baker McKenzie where she focused on corporate M&A transactions. At Howden M&A Julia specializes in W&I insurance in CEE region in M&A and real estate transactions. Julia has a MA in Law from University of Warsaw and was admitted to the Warsaw Bar of Legal Advisors. She also completed studies at Centre for the Study of English and European Law and graduated with honours from the American Law Center. Julia is fluent in Polish and English. Outside of work Julia enjoys reading, snowboarding and baking.

Email: [email protected]

Jakub (Kuba) Grabarz

Associate Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

Kuba specialises in tax insurance and has a particular focus on the Benelux and CEE region. He has 10 years of experience as a Dutch qualified tax lawyer. Before joining Howden M&A, Kuba worked at Baker McKenzie, Amsterdam. He has a LLB and LLM from Utrecht University and LLM from the University of Florida. Kuba is also fluent in English, Dutch and Polish.

Email: [email protected]

Karolina Olko

Associate Director | Title

Karolina is an Associate Director in the Title Insurance team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, she worked for leading international law firms including Greenberg Traurig, where she acted for both Polish and international clients, including investment funds, developers and banks, on real estate sales and acquisitions and related restructurings as well as corporate matters including joint ventures. Karolina is a qualified Attorney of Law (Radca Prawny) admitted to the Warsaw Bar of Attorneys of Law, and holds a MA in Law from the Jagiellonian University in Cracow. She also completed postgraduate diploma in Competition Law at The Institute of Law Studies of the Polish Academy of Sciences. At Howden M&A, Karolina advises on the placement of title and legal indemnity insurance policies on Real Estate and M&A transactions across continental Europe and in particular in CEE. Outside of work Karolina enjoys baking and active pursuits including running, hiking and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Malgorzata Swierczek

Associate Director | W&I

Malgorzata is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Ma?gorzata worked at Baker Mckenzie and CMS where she focused on M&A transactions and corporate restructuring. At Howden M&A, Ma?gorzata specializes in W&I insurance in CEE region in M&A and real estate transactions. Ma?gorzata has a MA in Law from University of Warsaw and was admitted to the Warsaw Bar of Legal Advisors . She also completed studies at Centre for the Study of English and European Law. Ma?gorzata is fluent in Polish and English. Outside of work Ma?gorzata enjoys travelling, reading and sports.

Email: [email protected]

Mateusz Grzybicki

Senior Associate | W&I

Mateusz is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Mateusz was employed as a lawyer at GESSEL and EY Law and advised clients on corporate law, intellectual property, IT, and data protection. At Howden M&A, Mateusz specializes in W&I insurance in the CEE region in M&A and real estate transactions. Mateusz has a MA in Law and interdisciplinary studies from University of Warsaw and he is a qualified attorney-at-law admitted to the Warsaw Bar Association. Mateusz is fluent in Polish and English.

Email: [email protected]

Thomas Clarke

Associate Director | W&I

Thomas Clarke is an Associate Director in the CEE team at Howden M&A. Thomas joined Howden after leaving Newcastle University, where he read History, and having worked in the wider financial lines team he joined the M&A team in 2016. Since then Thomas has acquired a great deal of experience in the placement of W&I and title insurance policies on real estate and operational transactions across the whole CEE region, from Poland and Czech Republic to Romania and Bulgaria.

Email: [email protected]

Daniela Bergs

Associate Director | Environmental

Daniela is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining she worked as a Senior Environmental Insurance Underwriter at Liberty Mutual Insurance in New York. Together with the environmental team, her focus is finding insurance solutions for complex environmental liability structures for both real estate and operational transactions. Daniela holds a Master’s Degree in Business Marketing from the University FU Berlin. In her free time, Daniela enjoys literature, philosophy and politics.

Email: [email protected]

Dr. Severin Zöergiebel

Executive Director

Severin is an Executive Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Severin was co-founder of a London-based FinTech VC company. He also worked at Citigroup’s investment banking team in Frankfurt. At Howden M&A Severin advises clients on M&A insurance solutions for their transactions. Severin holds a Ph.D. in finance from the Goethe University Frankfurt and a Master’s degree in business administration from the University of Mannheim and the Copenhagen Business School. He is fluent in English and German. Outside of work Severin enjoys mountain climbing, photography and good wine.

Email: [email protected]

Florian Umlauft

Associate Director | W&I

Email: [email protected]

Franziska Nebollieff

Senior Associate | W&I

Franziska is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining, she worked for several leading law firms (Linklaters, Ashurst and Noerr) for 8 years with a particular focus on Transaction Management on Acquisition Finance, M&A and Private Equity transactions. At Howden M&A, Franziska is part of the DACH team and focuses on W&I insurance on Real Estate transactions. Franziska has a BA in English and German Language and Literature from the University of Munich and is fluent in German, English and proficient in Japanese. Outside of work, Franziska enjoys Pilates, baking and the company of her friends and family.

Email: [email protected]

Gennadiy Kharif

Managing Director | Head of DACH

Gennadiy is a Managing Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Gennadiy was a vice president in Citigroup’s investment banking practice in Frankfurt and Moscow. At Howden M&A Gennadiy has led the placement of some of the most complex and sizeable transactions in the German market. Gennadiy holds a diploma in business administration from the University of Mannheim and Warwick Business School. He is fluent in English, German, Russian and Ukrainian. Outside of work Gennadiy is a committed tennis player and always keen to converse about Russian literature or German politics.

Email: [email protected]

Helene Schneider

Associate | Operations

Prior to joining Howden M&A, Helene worked for Averroes Concept Lounge GmbH for 10 years, a company delivering compliance solutions for the financial sector. Helene provides administrative support to the Howden M&A German teams in Frankfurt and Munich, as well as assisting the Operation team in the UK. Outside of work Helene enjoys cooking and visiting museums.

Email: [email protected]

Jannik Hermes

Senior Associate | W&I

Jannik is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Jannik worked at a leading German law firm where he was focused on capital markets and cross-border M&A transactions with a special focus on Chinese deals. At Howden M&A, Jannik is part of the DACH team and works on the W&I placement process on a broad array of transactions across all industries. Before obtaining his master degree in law from the University of Kassel, Jannik spent 18 months in the People’s Republic of China for studying Chinese. Outside of work, Jannik loves to travel and enjoys food and various kinds of sports. He is fluent in German, English and Chinese.

Email: [email protected]

Johann Benesch

Director | Head of Real Estate DACH

Johann is a Director in the Howden M&A team and heading the DACH real estate pratice. Prior to joining Johann worked as a management consultant, focusing on restructuring projects. Whilst at Howden, Johann has played an important role in developing our German operations and placed M&A insurance policies for numerous private equity and real estate funds, investing in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Johann holds a masters degree in economics (Diplom-Volkswirt) from the University of Bonn, Germany. He is fluent in German and English. Outside of work Johann enjoys swimming and hiking.

Email: [email protected]

Mirko Töpfer

Associate | W&I

Mirko is an Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining, Mirko worked as a Venture Developer at Berlin based fin-tech LegalOne. He also worked at a German law firm where he was focused on capital markets and corporate M&A transactions, and a leading US law firm with focus on Private Equity M&A. Together with the Howden M&A team, he works on the W&I placement process on a broad array of transactions across all industries. Mirko obtained his Master’s Degree in Law from the University of Applied Sciences Berlin. Outside of work, Mirko enjoys family time and any kind of sports. He is fluent in German and English.

Email: [email protected]

Peter Ratz

Director | W&I

Peter is a Director in the Howden M&A team. Prior to joining Howden, he worked for leading law firms (Freshfields and Schönherr, a leading Austrian law firm) with a particular focus on corporate law and M&A transactions and Bilfinger, a leading German-based industrial services provider, on the execution of M&A transactions from a legal perspective. Peter holds a degree in law from the University of Vienna, a PhD from Johann Wolfgang Goethe-University in Frankfurt and a degree in international relations from the College of Europe in Bruges (Belgium). Peter is fluent in English and German.

Email: [email protected]

Ram Kakkar

Senior Associate | W&I

Ram is a Senior Associate in the Howden M&A team. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Ram collected a variety of work experiences including internships in the Investment Banking practice. At Howden M&A, Ram is part of the DACH team and coordinates and establishes insurer-client focused partnerships. Ram holds a Master's degree in finance from the Johannes-Gutenberg University Mainz and is fluent in German, English and Hindi.

Email: [email protected]

Timo Probst

Director | Head of Title Insurance DACH

Timo is a Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Timo worked as a lawyer in the Corporate team of Clifford Chance on corporate and real estate transactions. At Howden M&A, Timo specialises in advising on W&I, title and specific risk insurance policies with a focus on real estate transactions in Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Timo graduated from the University of Passau and absolved his legal clerkship in Munich and New York where he worked at Hogan Lovells. Timo is fluent in German and English. Outside of work, Timo enjoys hiking, skiing and driving with his historic car.

Email: [email protected]

Andras Haragovitch

Director | Co-head of France

Andras is a Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Andras worked as a lawyer in the M&A/Private Equity teams of Weil Gotshal & Manges (Paris) and Dentons (Paris and Moscow) for over 10 years. At Howden M&A, he focuses on placing W&I as well as other transactional insurance policies. Andras is a graduate of Science-Po in Paris (Economics and Finance), holds post-graduate degrees in business law from Paris-Sorbonne and Paris-Nanterre and is fluent in English, French, Russian and Hungarian. Outside of work Andras enjoys a variety of mountain and ocean sports.

Email: [email protected]

Alicia Scott

Associate I Business Development Europe

Alicia is a business development associate and office manager for the M&A Paris offices. Based in the UK she works closely with the UK BD team and the French M&A team. Alicia joined Howden Group in 2019 as PA to the Group Chairman after moving to the UK from France. In 2022 Alicia joined Nicolas Aubert Regional CEO to help set up Howden in France as an EA and project manager. Alicia was born and raised in the South of France and is fluent in English and French. In her spare time she enjoys reading, travelling and spending time with friends and family

Email: [email protected]

Charles-Henri Gridel

Associate Director | Business Development

Charles-Henri is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Charles-Henri began his career at BNP Paribas before joining international law firm Gide as part of the Business Development team, holding positions in Paris and Shanghai during his tenure. Most recently Charles-Henri was head of Business Development for Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) at Herbert Smith Freehills and a member of the firm’s EMEA Executive Committee. Charles-Henri leads Howden M&A's Business Development function across Continental Europe, building the brand profile with investment funds, lawyers, M&A bankers, corporates and the financial services industry.

Email: [email protected]

Christy Chidiac

Associate I W&I

Prior to joining Howden M&A, Christy worked as a lawyer in the Corporate team of Herbert Smith Freehills (Paris). At Howden M&A, she advises international clients on the placement of W&I. Outside of work, Christy enjoys yoga and playing golf.

Email: [email protected]

Lucie Bocel

Director | Co-head of France

Lucie is a Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Lucie worked as a Corporate M&A lawyer. At Howden M&A, Lucie supports clients to negotiate bespoke French-law insurance policies (including “assurances de GAP”) on their M&A transactions. Lucie has a Masters degree in Wealth Management (Paris-Sorbonne) and a Master in Business Law (Paris-Dauphine). She has also studied Business and Management at the ESCP European Business School (MEB 2016). She is fluent in French and English. Outside of work Lucie enjoys cooking quiches and running in exotic countries.

Phone: +44 (0) 2071 331 557

Email: [email protected]

Mayghan Dolmy

Office Manager | Operations

Mayghan is a Freelance Office Manager at Howden M&A. With her 12 years’ experience in HR, Mayghan offers HR management skills including HR Administration, Talent Acquisition, and other projects leading to build strong HR process in big companies and startups. At Howden M&A, Mayghan works with the French team to setup the new office in Paris and to implement HR process. Mayghan graduated in 2007 and obtained a Bachelor’s degree in foreign languages (English, Spanish, Italian, Chinese). Outside of work Mayghan enjoys music, writing, Crossfit and Hip Hop dance that she has practiced for 20 years.

Email: [email protected]

Olivia Sibieude

Associate Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

Olivia is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Olivia worked in the tax teams of Mayer Brown and Paul Hastings for over 7 years where she specialised in structuring transactions and mainly advised private equity funds and managers. At Howden M&A, Olivia focusses on providing tax insurance solutions for M&A transactions. Olivia is a graduate of ESSEC Business School and has a Master DJCE in tax law from Cergy Paris University. Outside of work, Olivia is a wine lover and has a passion for women empowerment initiatives and home renovation projects.

Email: [email protected]

Valentin Condette de Sainte-Maresville

Senior Associate | W&I

Valentin is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Valentin worked as a lawyer in the Private M&A/Corporate team of Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton (Paris) for over 5 years. At Howden M&A, he advises international clients on the placement of W&I and other transactional insurance policies.

Email: [email protected]

Valentin Moreau

Associate | W&I

Valentin is an Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Valentin worked in a French M&A boutique and in a Venture Capital company. At Howden M&A, Valentin works on the W&I placement process on a broad array of both real estate and operational transactions. Valentin has a Master in Finance from Audencia Business School. Outside of work Valentin enjoys playing tennis, boating and wine tasting.

Email: [email protected]

Antonio Luis Vazquez Pineda

Associate Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

Antonio specializes in tax insurance solutions for M&A transactions with a particular focus on the Iberian region. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Antonio worked at Deloitte where he advised on a range of international tax matters and cross-border deals. Antonio graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a B.A. in Philosophy, Politics, & Economics (PPE) and holds a LL.M. degree in Taxation from IE Business School; he is bilingual in English and Spanish. Outside of work, Antonio enjoys equestrian show-jumping and dressage; alpine skiing; scuba diving; and motorcycling.

Email: [email protected]

Beatriz Martínez Torres

Director | W&I

Beatriz is a Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Beatriz worked as a corporate M&A lawyer at CMS and Spanish-based law firm ECIJA where she advised domestic and international clients in M&A and real estate transactions. At Howden M&A Beatriz works in the Iberia team advising in the placement of W&I policies in Spain and Portugal. Beatriz has a Double Degree in Law and Business Administration from Universidad Autónoma de Madrid and is fluent in Spanish, English and French. Outside of work Beatriz enjoys travelling, yoga and horse riding.

Email: [email protected]

Belen Arellano

Associate Director | W&I

Belén is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Belén worked at EY Madrid where she worked for the Corporate and M&A team. At Howden M&A Belen works in the Iberia team advising on the placement of W&I policies in Spain and Portugal. Belén has a degree in Spanish Law from Universidad Pontificia Comillas (ICADE) and a degree in French Law from Univeristé Paris Nanterre, and is fluent in English and French. Outside of work Belén enjoys Spanish dance and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Carmen Vicinay

Associate | Operations

Carmen holds a double degree in Business Administration and International Relations from Francisco de Vitoria University. She began her professional career in BMW Financial Services in the operations department. During the last two years she has been part of the Operations team in Howden Iberia and is currently focused in M&A bringing financial expertise. Carmen is fluent in Spanish and English and has an intermediate command of French. Outside of work Carmen enjoys travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Eduardo Real de Asúa

Director | Howden Iberia

Eduardo is the General Manager at Howden Iberia. Prior to joining Howden, Eduardo began his professional career in the commercial sector in Latin America. There he made the leap into the insurance world in 1997. At Howden he holds important positions as General Manager of Reinsurance and Specialties for the Region. Eduardo has a degree in Economics and Business Administration from the University of the Basque Country and a degree in Insurance. Outside of work Eduardo enjoys golf and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Enrique Pérez del Castillo

Executive Director | Head of Howden Iberia M&A

Enrique has more than 14 years of experience as a business lawyer specialized in M&A. Prior to joining Howden Iberia, he developed his professional career in the firms Linklaters and Deloitte Legal, in their offices in Madrid. Enrique holds a degree in law and a master's degree in Business Law from IE Business School. Along with his professional experience, Enrique has taught at the Universidad Carlos III, IE Business School and the Madrid Bar Association, among other institutions, on issues related to commercial law and M&A. Outside of work, Enrique enjoys playing golf and basketball and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Francisco Alvim

Director | W&I

Francisco has experience as a Portuguese qualified lawyer and, over the past 10 years, his practice has been focused on corporate transactions and real estate investments, as well as development, lease and financing of commercial real estate. After working for Cuatrecasas, RRP Advogados (member of EY Global Law Network) and VdA, Francisco brings additional Portuguese corporate and real estate expertise to our Iberian team.

Email: [email protected]

Jesús Esteban Falero

Associate | W&I

Jesús developed expertise in M&A and Capital Markets in Clifford Chance and Ramón y Cajal Abogados for 5 years before joining the Howden Iberia M&A team. Jesús holds a double bachelor degree in Law and Politics from the University San Pablo CEU (Madrid) and a Masters’ in Legal Practice and International Business Law from University Carlos III and ISDE. He is fluent in English and has an intermediate command of French. Outside of work, Jesús enjoys literature, tennis, cinema and motorsports.

Email: [email protected]

Juan Francisco Ortega

Associate | W&I

Juan holds a Law Degree and a Masters' in Business Legal Advice from Carlos III University of Madrid, as well as a Masters' in Legal Practice with M&A specialty at UOC. Juan has previous professional experience in several law firms, working in business law and M&A. Among other awards, Juan won the national legal debate tournament in 2020. He is fluent in Spanish and English and has an intermediate command of Portuguese. Outside of work Juan enjoys history, cooking, gym and football.

Email: [email protected]

Marta Blanco Ruiz

Senior Associate | Business Development

Marta coordinates the business development strategy for Howden M&A Iberia. Prior to her current role, Marta spent her first three years at Howden M&A as a W&I broker in the Spanish market. Before that, Marta worked in the wider Howden group as a Financial lines Executive Accountant looking for insurance solutions for banks, investment and private equity funds. Marta has a bachelor degree in Business Administration, majoring in Finance from CUNEF University in Madrid. Outside of work Marta enjoys travelling, yoga and socialising with friends.

Email: [email protected]

Sven Lehnig

Director | W&I

Sven is a Director in the Howden M&A team. Prior to joining Howden, he gained experience in the consumer team of a mid-market investment bank and as a head-hunter in the IT sector. Sven has lived and studied in both the UK and Germany, speaking English and German fluently. He has a BsC in Finance and Economics from Lancaster University. Outside of work Sven enjoys Ski, travelling and golf.

Email: [email protected]

Declan Cunningham

Associate Director | W&I

Declan is an Associate Director and Head of Ireland at Howden M&A. Declan has over 10 years experience working as a corporate lawyer in a number of tier 1 law firms in Dublin and is dual qualified in both Ireland and the UK. At Howden M&A, Declan focuses on W&I insurance on M&A transactions that have an Irish angle e.g. involve Irish clients or target companies. Outside of work Declan enjoys boxing and barbequing.

Email: [email protected]

Oren Werber

Head of Israel | W&I

Oren is Head of Howden M&A’s Israel practice. Before joining Howden, Oren led the M&A and Cyber practices of a major Israeli insurance broker, while also managing complex Special Risks and P&C accounts. Before that, Oren served in the legal department of one of Israel’s biggest investment houses.

Email: [email protected]

Giulia Malusa

Director | Head of Italy

Giulia is an Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Giulia worked at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer (Milan) and, before that, at BonelliErede, where she focused on corporate M&A and private equity transactions. At Howden M&A, Giulia leads the Italian business utilising her experience as an M&A attorney to advise clients on M&A insurance, structuring solutions for their transactions. Giulia holds a law degree from Bocconi University in Milan and an LLM master degree from the London School of Economics. She is fluent in Italian and English. Outside of work Giulia enjoys travelling, reading and enjoying a nice glass of wine.

Email: [email protected]

Magdalena Unterthurner

Analyst | W&I

Magdalena is an Analyst at Howden M&A, working in the Italian W&I team. Before joining she undertook various internships in different law firms in Italy and Germany. She will graduate from the Master of Arts in Law program at Bocconi University in Milan. Magdalena is fluent in Italian, German and English and outside of work she enjoys travelling and doing sports.

Email: [email protected]

Chiara Guidi

Associate I W&I

Email: [email protected]

Virginia List

Associate | W&I

Virginia is an Associate at Howden M&A. Before joining, Virginia worked at Latham & Watkins (Milan) in the corporate, regulatory and compliance department advising private equity funds and domestic and international clients in M&A and capital markets transactions. Prior to that she worked at Legance in the energy team. At Howden M&A Virginia works in the Italian team advising in the placement of W&I policies. Virginia is an Italian qualified lawyer and holds a law degree from Trento University and she spent a semester at Vermont Law School (U.S.). She is fluent in Italian and English. Outside of work Virginia enjoys yoga and cinema.

Email: [email protected]

Alexander Rasmussen

Executive Director | Head of Nordics

Alexander is an Executive Director and Head of Nordics at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Alexander worked at Kromann Reumert in Copenhagen within the corporate M&A and IT department. At Howden M&A, Alexander focusses on W&I insurance on M&A transactions that have a Nordic angle, e.g. involve Nordic clients or target companies. Alexander has a Masters of Law degree from the University of Copenhagen and is fluent in Danish, English and German. Outside of work Alexander enjoys tennis, heavy metal music, experimental food and the company of his friends and family.

Email: [email protected]

Carl Levin

Director | Head of Sweden

Carl is a Director and Head of Sweden at Howden M&A. Carl has over 8 years of experience working as a corporate lawyer in Sweden at tier 1 law firms advising on both public and private, domestic and international transactions across a wide array of industry sectors. Carl holds a Master of Laws from Stockholm university and a Master of Science in Business & Economics from the Stockholm School of Economics. Carl speaks fluent English and Swedish.

Email: [email protected]

Celina Skantz

Intern

Celina joined the team at the end of 2021 as an Intern within the Nordic M&A team. She is currently studying BSc in Business and Economics at the University of Stockholm. Outside of work Celina enjoys travelling and socialising with friends.

Email: [email protected]

Dennis Lindgren

Senior Associate | W&I

Dennis is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Dennis studied law at Uppsala University. At Howden M&A, Dennis works at the Stockholm office as a part of the Nordic W&I team. Dennis has a LL.M from Uppsala University, and is fluent in Swedish, Finnish and English. Outside of work Dennis enjoys traveling, reading and training.

Email: [email protected]

Diana Sloth Nielsen

Associate Director | W&I

Diana is a Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, she worked for a leading international law firm (DLA Piper) with a particular focus on corporate law and M&A transactions. Diana was a qualified Attorney-at-Law in Denmark, and holds a Masters degree from the University of Aarhus. Further, she has worked as a teacher in Law of Obligations at the University of Copenhagen. At Howden M&A, Diana focusses on W&I insurance on M&A transactions that have a Nordic angle, e.g. involve Nordic clients or target companies. Outside of work Diana enjoys running, going to old movie theatres, reading and the company of her friends and family.

Email: [email protected]

Emma Thimmig

Senior Associate | W&I

Emma is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A and holds a law degree from the University of Helsinki. Prior to joining Howden M&A, she has experience of working as an attorney within M&A and RE teams of Tier1 law firms both in Helsinki and Stockholm, as well as M&A legal counsel at a listed company in Sweden.

Email: [email protected]

Turid Rokne

Associate | W&I

Turid is an Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, she gained a master’s in Business Administration and Commercial Law from Copenhagen Business School and worked in Nordea Asset Management. Turid is located in Copenhagen as part of the Nordic W&I team.

Email: [email protected]

Vandad Ahmedi

Senior Associate | W&I

Vandad is a Senior Associate in the Howden M&A Nordics team. Prior to joining Howden, Vandad worked as a M&A lawyer at a major Swedish law firm and has also experience from criminal law from his work as a defence attorney. At Howden M&A, Vandad works with W&I placement on a broad array of deals including both real estate and operational transactions across all sectors. Vandad has a Master of Laws degree from Stockholm University. Outside of work Vandad enjoys sports in general and football and tennis in particular and spending quality time with friends and family. Vandad is fluent in Swedish and English.

Email: [email protected]

Abbas Juma

Executive Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

Abbas is an Executive Director in the tax team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Abbas worked at Ernst & Young and Deloitte where he specialised in real estate tax and mainly advised private equity funds investing into European real estate. At Howden M&A, Abbas focusses on providing tax insurance solutions for M&A transactions. Abbas has a BSc in Accounting and Finance from the London School of Economics and is a qualified chartered accountant.


[email protected]

Adam Iaciofano

Associate | Operations

Adam has worked within the Howden IBA department for a total of 5 years across both the client & insurer teams. At Howden M&A, Adam works within the operational team and assists in technical, operational and financial matters. Adam’s favourite hobbies include watching football, socialising with friends & travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Analily  Cepeda

Associate | Claims

Analily is a Claims Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Analily was a Senior Technical Claims Handler at both Strata Solicitors and Allianz Insurance. Analily is experienced in investigating and dealing with Liability and Motor claims. At Howden M&A, Analily analyses and reviews insurance claims to assist Insureds through the claims process. Analily has a Bachelor of Laws from Nottingham Trent University. In her spare time Analily enjoys travelling, reading and trying new food.

Email: [email protected]

Andrea Wickman

Intern | Operations

Email: [email protected]

Ajay Jones

Associate Director | W&I

Ajay is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Ajay worked in the Middle East at Acuma Wealth Management where he specialised in providing financial advice to UK and European expatriates across the UAE and wider GCC countries. At Howden M&A, Ajay works on the W&I placement process on a broad array of both real estate and operational transactions. Ajay has a BSc in Economics from The University of Nottingham. Outside of work Ajay enjoys rugby, swimming and has a passion for food and drink.

Email: [email protected]

Alex Southby

Divisional Director | Head of Contingent Risks

Alex is Head of Contingent Risks at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Alex practised as a solicitor in the Dispute Resolution department at Travers Smith across a broad range of commercial and financial services litigation, before working in litigation finance. At Howden M&A, Alex specialises in bespoke insurance solutions for legal and other contingent risks. Alex has an MA in English Literature from Oxford. Outside of work Alex enjoys spending time with his children, and remembering when he had time to travel and read.

Email: [email protected]

Alexander Copsey

Associate | Tax & Contingent Risks

Email: [email protected]

Anna Robinson

Executive Director | Head of Claims

Anna is the Executive Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Anna was an insurance litigator at Kennedys in London. She has a wealth of experience negotiating complex and contentious claims across various lines of insurance in the UK and New Zealand, as a solicitor and on secondments at London market insurers. At Howden M&A, Anna supports our clients throughout the claims process. Anna has a Bachelor of Laws and Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Finance from the University of Otago. Outside of work Anna enjoys fitness and travel.

Email: [email protected]

Ash Sethia

Senior Associate | Transactional Diligence

Ash is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Ash worked as a Broker in Bowood where he specialised in placing Binding Authorities across several different lines of business in Europe, Canada and the United States. At Howden M&A Ash works in the IDD team focusing on helping clients assess insurance programmes. Ash holds a BSc in Geography from the University of Edinburgh and an Advanced Diploma in Insurance (ACII) from the Chartered Insurance Institute. Outside of work Ash enjoys travelling and clay shooting.

Email: [email protected]

Ayesha Nand-Kumar

Analyst | Title

Ayesha is a Title Analyst at Howden M&A. Prior to this, Ayesha graduated with an LLB Law degree at Brunel University and worked at an Expert Network firm for six months in order to support Management Consultancies and Private Equity firms. Ayesha now proudly assists the Title team in placing legal indemnity and title policies across the UK and Europe. Outside of work, Ayesha enjoys food, walking her dog and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Caroline Rowlands

Executive Director | Co-head of M&A

Caroline is co-head of the Howden M&A team. After training and qualifying as a solicitor at Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Caroline joined the Howden M&A team as a broker in the W&I team. Prior to taking on her role, Caroline led Howden M&A’s U.K. private equity practice. Caroline has a MA in Law from Cambridge. Outside of work she enjoys running, travel and visiting art galleries.

Email: [email protected]

Caspar Sugden

Business Development Executive

Caspar is a Business Development Executive at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Caspar began his career as an estate agent in PCL before working his way around the world. From an Estancia in Patagonia, the largest sailing yacht in Australasia and an RE Fund in Sydney. Caspar has worked in a huge variety of fields and city’s… Most recently Caspar was Head of Sales and Investments at a London based Developer building airspace developments and apartment blocks which were sold to individuals and funds respectively. Caspar now works with Jamie Thompson and the rest of the Business Development Team building the brand profile with Real Estate funds, Private Equity funds, lawyers and the rest of the M&A industry. Outside of work Caspar enjoys country pursuits and is occasionally found at Lords.

Email: [email protected]

Daniel Stock

Managing Director | Head of UK W&I

Daniel leads the UK W&I Team. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Daniel worked as a corporate lawyer at Dentons advising clients across geographies and sectors including on indirect real estate. At Howden M&A, he advises on the placement of W&I insurance policies across Europe. Daniel has a degree in History from Manchester University.

Email: [email protected]

Darcie Trimmings

PA | Operations

Darcie is a Junior PA at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A Darcie completed A levels in sociology, History and Business Studies. At Howden M&A, Darcie carries out front of house responsibilities as well as providing support to Operations and the wider M&A team. Outside of work Darcie enjoys watching the rugby, going on long walks with her dog and socialising with friends & family.

Email: [email protected]

Darrel Lamsdale

Executive Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

Darrel is an Executive Director in the tax team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Darrel worked at Barclays where he advised on M&A Tax matters arising from Barclays proprietary M&A. At Howden M&A, Darrel primarily focuses on specific tax risk insurance for PE funds and other operational businesses, as well as developing other tailored insurance solutions. Darrel has a BSc in Biological Sciences from the University of Warwick. Outside of work Darrel is an avid rock climber and cyclist.

Email: [email protected]

David Mussche

Associate Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

David specialises in tax insurance as an Associate Director in the tax team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, David worked as a tax lawyer in Belgium at NautaDutilh, Deloitte Legal and Mythra. David graduated magna cum laude from Ghent University (JD) and the Solvay Brussels School of Economics and Management (special master in tax management). He also holds an LL.M in International Taxation from NYU School of Law. David is licenced to practice in both Belgium and New York. He is fluent in Dutch, English and French. Outside of work, David enjoys table tennis, hiking and motorcycling.

Email: [email protected]

David Newnham

Associate Director | Title

David is an Associate Director in the Title Insurance team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, David worked at Kingsley Napley LLP where he practised as a commercial Real Estate lawyer. During his time as a lawyer, David advised clients nationally on all aspects of Real Estate transactions with a focus on the development, investment and financing of commercial Real Estate. At Howden M&A, David advises on the placement of title and legal indemnity insurance policies on Real Estate transactions across the UK and continental Europe. David has an LLB (Hons) in Law from the University of Southampton. Outside of work David enjoys active pursuits including, touch rugby, skiing and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

David Persaud

Executive Director | Head of Title & Real Estate risks

David is a Director and the Head of Title Insurance at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, David worked at White and Case where he practiced as a commercial real estate lawyer. At Howden M&A, David specialises in the placement of title and legal indemnity insurance. David has a BSc (Hons) in Biological Sciences from the University of Exeter. Outside of work David enjoys running, travel and skiing.

Email: [email protected]

Drew Naylor

Senior Associate | Claims

Drew joined the Claims Team at Howden M&A in January 2023; he supports our clients throughout the claims process. He is an English qualified solicitor with extensive experience in contesting, negotiating, and settling complex disputes across various lines of insurance business. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Drew was the in-house Claims Counsel at Antares for three years and, prior to that, was an insurance litigator at RPC for 11 years. Outside of work, Drew enjoys spending time with his young family and playing/watching sport – in particular, Drew follows cricket, F1, ice hockey, and his beloved Sheffield Wednesday FC.

Email: [email protected]

Drew Wardrope

Managing Director

Drew is the Managing Director of Howden M&A, Europe’s leading M&A insurance broker with a team of almost 100 M&A experts based across 11 European jurisdiction. As head of the team Drew is ultimately responsible for ensuring that Howden M&A continues to set the gold standard when it comes to the placement of M&A insurance. Drew has led the placement on a number of the largest and most complex tax risk insurance policies placed in the European market. Prior to joining Howden, was a Director at Barclays Bank working on Barclays’ proprietary M&A transactions. Drew is a chartered accountant. Outside of work, Drew enjoys spending time with his family and running and cycling.

Email: [email protected]

Edward Copeman

Associate Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

Bringing expertise from Litigation and Banking & Finance, Ed focusses on arranging bespoke insurance solutions for identified legal risks. Before joining the Contingent Risks team, Ed worked at Allens Linklaters in Australia focussing on class actions and regulatory investigations and disputes, and at Commonwealth Bank of Australia in New York and Sydney, focussing on US Private Placements and structuring subordinated debt solutions. Ed is admitted to practice as a lawyer in New South Wales, and he has also completed a degree in Mining Engineering and six months’ work experience with Rio Tinto.

Ella Shillingford

Executive Director | W&I

Ella is an Executive Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A in 2015, Ella worked in Howden’s International Property team where she specialised in handling claims in the South American and APAC regions. At Howden M&A Ella specialises in the placement of W&I insurance on UK and pan-European transactions. Ella has a first class BA Honours in History and Politics from the University of Westminster.

Email: [email protected]

Emma Robinson

Senior Associate | Title

Emma is a Senior Associate in the Title Insurance team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Emma worked at Kingsley Napley LLP where she practised as a Real Estate lawyer advising clients on all aspects of domestic commercial and residential Real Estate transactions. Emma had a particular specialism in the investment and financing of commercial Real Estate, and development projects. At Howden M&A, Emma advises on the placement of title and legal indemnity insurance policies on Real Estate transactions across the UK and Europe. Emma has an LLB (Hons) in Law from the University of Warwick and qualified as a Solicitor in March 2019. Outside of work, Emma enjoys horse-riding, cycling and playing the piano.

Email: [email protected]

Emma Williamson

Managing Director | Operations

Emma is a Managing Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Emma worked for several London market insurance and reinsurance brokers and a Lloyds Managing Agency in a variety of Operational and Technical roles. At Howden M&A Emma manages the Operations team and now has 9 years experience in M&A. Outside of work Emma has a family to keep her busy and enjoys travelling, food and wine.

Email: [email protected]

Farah Aslam

Senior Associate | W&I

Farah is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Farah worked as a corporate M&A lawyer at Addleshaw Goddard followed by Ernst & Young, where she focused on both private equity and private M&A transactions. At Howden M&A, Farah is leading the Northern offering by establishing the Manchester office as head of the North. Farah works on transactions across all industries, placing W&I insurance for both corporates and PE funds. Farah is a solicitor qualified in England & Wales and holds an MSc in International Business and Emerging Markets from the University of Edinburgh.

Email: [email protected]

Frederick Nilsson

Associate | Claims

Frederick is a Claims Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining, Frederick was a Loss Adjuster at Charles Taylor Adjusting in London. He has 4+ years of experience investigating and advising on Specialty Lines insurance claims including Financial Institutions/Crime as well as Cyber and Construction Professional Indemnity. At Howden M&A, Frederick analyses and reviews insurance claims to assist Insureds throughout the claims process. Frederick has a Bachelor of Law from the University of Southampton as well as a Master of Law from Erasmus University of Rotterdam. In his spare time Frederick enjoys sports, museums and art galleries.

Email: [email protected]

Glenn O'Halloran

Executive Director | Head of Environmental Risk

Glenn is a Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Glenn led the environmental practice at Chubb, overseeing underwriting, claims and product development. At Howden M&A, Glenn specialises in placing environmental insurance, with a particular focus on insuring complex soil and groundwater indemnities. Glenn has a honours degree in Environmental Engineering from the University of Wollongong (Australia) and a MBA from Anglia Ruskin University. Outside of work Glenn enjoys running and spending time in the mountains.

Email: [email protected]

Grace Kelly

Analyst | W&I

Grace is an Analyst at Howden M&A. At Howden M&A, Grace works in the W&I team, focusing on placing W&I insurance for UK real estate and operational transactions. Grace has a first class BSc in International Business, Finance and Economics from the University of Manchester. Outside of work, Grace enjoys socialising with friends and family, and has a passion for travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Grace Bennett

Associate | Operations

Grace is an Operations Associate, assisting with the technical, financial and operational matters of the business. Before joining Howden M&A, Grace worked as a paralegal at Islington Council. Grace holds a LLB (Hons) Law degree from The University of Manchester. Outside of work Grace enjoys korfball, socialising and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Gurdas Singh

Analyst I Business Development

Gurdas takes responsibility for the business and client development within Tax & Contingent Risks at Howden M&A, as well as focusing on the wider Howden Capital, Advisory and Placement division. Gurdas joined Howden in 2023 after completing his medical training and Bachelor’s in Medical Sciences at St Thomas’ Hospital at King’s College London, and his Master’s in Economics specialising in hand surgical interventions from The University of Oxford, as a fellow of the British Society for Surgery of the Hand. During his time at university, Gurdas interned in the private equity, investment banking, strategy consultancy, and financial advisory spheres with focuses in cybersecurity, financial institutions, life sciences, and energy sectors.

Email: [email protected]

Guy Wilmot

Director | Business Development

Guy is a Director in the Howden M&A team, with a focus on client origination and client management across the private equity and corporate sectors. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Guy trained and qualified as a solicitor in the London office of Eversheds Sutherland, where he specialised in non-contentious insolvency, restructurings and general finance. He subsequently spent four years in the legal, compliance and regulatory practice of a global leadership consulting firm. Guy holds a BA in Business Economics from the University of Exeter.

Email: [email protected]

Haeram Jalees

Associate | W&I

Haeram is an Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Haeram undertook a variety of work placements in consulting and commercial law, including a vacation scheme at Sidley Austin in London. At Howden M&A, Haeram works in the W&I team, focusing on placing W&I insurance for UK real estate and operational transactions. Haeram has a BA in Law from the University of Cambridge and an LLM in International Financial Law from King’s College London. Outside of work, Haeram enjoys football, rowing and brewing coffee.

Email: [email protected]

Hannah Wallis

Associate Director | W&I

Hannah is an Associate Director at Howden M&A, focusing on Real Estate transactions in the UK and continental Europe. Hannah has a MA (Hons) in Modern Languages from the University of Edinburgh and having worked in Brussels and studied in Madrid, speaks French and Spanish.

Email: [email protected]

Harry Binet

Analyst | Operations

Harry is an Analyst at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Harry attended the University of British Columbia where he studied Politics and Economics. At Howden M&A, Harry assists with the technical, financial and operational matters of the business. Outside of work, Harry enjoys playing tennis, Formula 1 and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Harry McKelvey

Senior Associate | Business Development

Harry joined Howden in 2019 after 7 years in the real estate sector. His focus at Howden M&A is on deal origination as well as client management, his role also includes the distribution of the M&A multi-product strategy across the private equity & real estate sectors. Outside of work Harry has a keen interest in British Eventing and follows F1 & Rugby Union closely.

Email: [email protected]

Helena Duggan

PA | Operations

Helena is a PA at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Helena completed A Levels in French, German and Psychology. At Howden M&A Helena provides PA support across the M&A team as well as assisting the Operations team. Outside of work, Helena enjoys travelling and socialising with friends.

Email: [email protected]

Hugh Willis

Associate Director | Transactional Diligence

Hugh is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Hugh spent six years working as a project manager within the M&A insurance advisory practices at Marsh and Willis Towers Watson. During this time Hugh built a strong working knowledge of property, casualty and financial lines insurances. At Howden M&A, Hugh works in the insurance due diligence team acting as an insurance advisor to private equity, infrastructure and corporate clients during their investment activity. Hugh has a BA in Ancient History from Cardiff University. Outside of work Hugh enjoys sports and travel and climbed Kilimanjaro in 2019.

Email: [email protected]

Ivan Kupchenko

Analyst I Business Development

Ivan is a Business Development Analyst at Howden M&A in the UK. His role encompasses a range of business development tasks across Europe, with an emphasis on data and statistics. Before joining Howden, Ivan was an auditor at Crowe Global in Kyiv, Ukraine. Later, he became a consultant for private equity firms, then an associate at a boutique investment bank with a focus on media and publishing.

Email: [email protected]

Jack O'Neill

Associate | W&I

Jack is an Associate at Howden M&A and a solicitor qualified in England & Wales. Jack joined from Clyde & Co where he worked in private practice, specialising in insurance disputes and representing his clients as defence and coverage counsel in respect of financial lines claims. He has also completed secondments in-house at Zurich and Liberty, working as an insurance claims handler across a range of insurance sectors. At Howden M&A, Jack works on the W&I placement process on a broad array of both real estate and operational transactions across the UK and Europe.

Email: [email protected]

Jack Schafer

Analyst | Operations

Jack has a BA in International Relations and Modern History from the University of East Anglia. At Howden M&A, Jack works within the Operations Team and assists in technical, operational and financial matters. Outside of work, Jack enjoys playing football, discussing German politics and history, and going out.

Email: [email protected]

Jamie Thomson

Executive Director | Business Development

Jamie is an Executive Director in the Howden M&A team, with a focus on client origination and client management across the real estate sectors in Europe and Asia. Jamie holds a BA in Philiosophy, Social Policy & Sociology from the University of Bristol. Outside of work Jamie enjoys playing tennis and Padel and is a passionate cook.

Email: [email protected]

Jamie Weber

Associate | W&I

Jamie is an Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Jamie has held an intern position in the in-house legal team of a pharmaceutical company and worked in the hospitality sector. At Howden M&A Jamie works in the W&I team, placing insurance for UK real estate and operational transactions. Jamie has a LLB in Law with European Legal Studies from the University of East Anglia and a LLM in International Business Law from King’s College London. Outside of work, Jamie enjoys running and has a passion for international travel.

Email: [email protected]

James Baty

Associate | Tax & Contingent Risks

James supports the Contingent Risks team, assisting in product innovation and delivery as well as carrying out research projects. Prior to joining Howden, Jamie studied French and Portuguese at university. Outside of work James plays Brazilian guitar and mandolin.

Email: [email protected]

Jeananne Muir

Director | Transactional Diligence

Jeananne is a Director at Howden M&A leading our Transactional Diligence team based in London. Jeananne joined us from Marsh UK where she spent over 5 years working within Marsh’s M&A practice providing insurance diligence and portfolio management to M&A clients and their portfolio companies. Jeananne has a wealth of experience working with private equity, corporates and infrastructure clients. Jeananne has a Degree in Economics from University College Dublin and a MBS in Project Management from The Michael Smurfit School of Business in Dublin. Outside of work Jeananne enjoys fitness and travel.

Email: [email protected]

Jodie Bradshaw

Senior Associate | Tax & Contingent Risks

Jodie is a Senior Associate in the Howden M&A Tax team. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Jodie qualified as a lawyer at CMS and more recently worked as a Tax lawyer at Reed Smith where she advised on a broad range of UK and international tax matters, with a particular focus on corporate, real estate and finance. At Howden M&A, Jodie primarily focuses on specific tax risk insurance for PE funds and other operational businesses, whilst also providing tax insurance solutions for M&A transactions. Jodie has an LLB from the University of Exeter, and outside of work enjoys taking European city breaks and skiing.

Email: [email protected]

Joshua Yardley

Associate | Operations

Josh is an Operations Analyst at Howden M&A. Before joining Howden M&A, Josh worked at Brokersure Insurance within the Operations and Underwriting team, advising on a range of insurance products such as Gadget and complex Medical Travel Insurance. At Howden M&A, Josh assists in technical, operational and financial matters. Josh is on his way to completing his CII Insurance Broking qualification. Outside of work, Josh enjoys watching football, socialising with friends and the gym.

Email: [email protected]

Kaira Den Hartog

Analyst | W&I

Kaira is an Analyst at Howden M&A. Prior to joining, Kaira was involved in the crypto-space through internships with crypto-custodians and blockchain technology companies, university-level involvement as Head Journalist of KCL Blockchain Society and was shortlisted for the Undergraduate of the Year Award for Innovation. Kaira now works in the W&I team, placing insurance for UK real estate and operational transactions. Kaira has a LLB in Law from King’s College London and a LLM in Law & Finance from Universiteit van Amsterdam. Outside of work, Kaira enjoys reading, travelling and hiking.

Email: [email protected]

Kate Pearson

Associate Director | Tax & Contingent Risks

Kate joined Howden as an Associate Director in the Tax and Contingent Risk team. Prior to joining, Kate was in a front office structuring team at Barclays, developing and executing complex cross-border transactions across a range of asset classes. Kate also held M&A tax roles at both Barclays and Deloitte, and is a qualified solicitor and barrister in New Zealand. At Howden, she will focus on driving new initiatives, particularly in the banking and hedge fund sectors.

Email: [email protected]

Kenny Glass

Associate | Operations

Kenny is an Operations Associate at Howden M&A. Kenny is responsible for managing legal documents across the UK and Europe. Kenny has a LLB in Law from the University of Bristol. Kenny supports Arsenal FC.

Email: [email protected]

Laura McGlashan

Senior Claims Executive

Email: [email protected]

Lauren Moore

Analyst | Transactional Diligence

At Howden M&A Lauren provides insurance advice to investor clients (private equity, corporate and infrastructure) and analyses existing and historical insurance programmes to determine if they are in line with expectations. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Lauren worked as a Data Analyst and Paralegal at KPMG Ireland in Dublin before moving to London. Lauren holds an LLB degree from Trinity College Dublin. Outside of work Lauren enjoys socialising, travelling and fitness.

Email: [email protected]

Leanne James

Marketing Analyst | Business Development

Leanne works with business development and supports the M&A team with their marketing efforts. She graduated university with a degree in Marketing Management and previously worked at a company specialising in investor relations content before moving to the Howden M&A team. Outside of work, Leanne enjoys yoga and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Liam Fitzpatrick

Executive Director | Global Head of Business Development

Liam leads our business development team, taking responsibility for the strategic direction of our engagement with clients and their advisers, internationally. Liam joined us from the UK's leading independent insurance consultancy, Mactavish, where he was Client Services Director. Prior to that role, Liam spent five years working as a client executive and broker within the private equity and M&A division of Marsh UK where he advised on management liability programmes for investor-backed assets, particularly around M&A transactions and public offerings. Before starting a career in insurance, Liam was a corporate M&A lawyer and gained 10 years’ post qualification experience at Osborne Clarke, a leading international law firm.

Email: [email protected]

Louis Mannell

Associate Director | Operations

Louis is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Louis worked as a Claims Executive within the International Property Insurance team at RKH Specialty dealing with various accounts from Asia to Latin America. At Howden M&A Louis works within the Operations team and assists in Technical, Operational and Financial matters. Louis has a BA (Hons) Degree in Geography from the University of Nottingham. Outside of work Louis enjoys participating in various sport activities.

Email: [email protected]

Luca Gomez

Analyst | Operations

Luca is school leaver who studied economics, geography and History.
At Howden M&A, Luca works within the operational team and assists in technical, operational and financial matters. Outside of work, Luca enjoys food, sports and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Mark McGarry

Senior Associate | Tax & Contingent Risks

Mark is an Associate in the Howden M&A Tax team. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Mark worked at PwC Ireland where he advised US, Irish and other multinationals on a range of international tax matters. Mark primarily focuses on specific tax risk insurance for PE funds and other operational businesses, while also providing tax insurance solutions for M&A transactions. Mark is a qualified Chartered Accountant, Chartered Tax Advisor and holds a Business and Law degree from University College Dublin. Outside of work Mark is an avid golfer and wine enthusiast.

Email: [email protected]

Matthew Gooden

Executive Director | Chief of Staff

Matt is responsible for maintaining Howden M&A’s market leading standards by training new members of the team whilst ensuring the continual development of all our brokers. As well as previously holding broking and business development roles in the insurance sector, Matt qualified as a solicitor with Gowling WLG. He has a BA(Hons) from the University of Bristol and a MSc from the University Bath.

Email: [email protected]

Max Hager

Analyst | W&I

Max is an Analyst at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Max worked in HNW and commercial property insurance in the London Market. At Howden M&A, Max works in the W&I team, focusing on placing insurance for UK real estate and operational transactions. Max has a first class BA Hons in History and Archaeology from the University of Exeter, with a placement year at the Australian National University. Outside of work Max enjoys golf, cooking and has a passion for the countryside.

Email: [email protected]

Max Kent-Bond

Associate I Business Development

Max works as a Business Development Associate, collaborating with fellow brokers to both deepen and expand Howden M&A’s established network, as well as forge new relationships. Prior to Howden M&A, Max worked as an Investor Relations Associate within Private Equity, meeting with family offices and HNWIs in both the UK and across Benelux, to fundraise across different fund vintages. Max also read Philosophy at the University of Manchester, enjoying films and sports in his past-time.

Email: [email protected]

Michael Watters

Associate Director | W&I

Mike is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Mike worked at Mott MacDonald as a Structural Engineer. At Howden M&A Mike works primarily on real estate transactions in the UK and Europe. Mike has a Masters in Civil and Structural Engineering from the University of Sheffield. Outside of work Mike enjoys rugby and cricket.

Email: [email protected]

Molly Going

Senior Associate | Operations

Molly is an Operations Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining the M&A team she studied Psychology and Sociology at A Level. At Howden M&A Molly works within the Operations team and assists in Technical, Operational and Financial matters. Molly is currently studying towards her CII qualifications. Outside of work Molly enjoys sunny breaks and socialising with friends.

Email: [email protected]

Myles Marksman

Analyst | Operations

Myles is an Operations Analyst at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Myles studied at the University of Essex obtaining an LLB Law degree.
Outside of work, Myles maintains a key interest in sports particularly football, and coaches children from the ages of 5-16. He also enjoys reading and dining out.

Email: [email protected]

Niamh McKenna

Associate | Transactional Diligence

Niamh is an Associate in the Insurance Due Diligence and Advisory team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A she worked at Axis Capital in the Bordereaux Management team. At Howden M&A Niamh provides insurance advice to investor clients (private equity, corporate and infrastructure), and analyses existing and historical insurance programmes to determine if they are in line with expectations. Niamh has an LLB Law degree from the University of Exeter. Outside of work Niamh enjoys travelling, fitness and skiing.

Email: [email protected]

Nicholas Hanney

Director | Business Development

Nicholas is a Director in the Howden M&A team, responsible for client origination and client management of Private Equity companies globally, with a particular focus on the UK and the DACH. Prior to joining Howden, Nicholas worked in banking, starting his career at Barclays with a focus on wealth management and corporate finance. Outside of the office, Nicholas sits on the board of the Private Equity charity Impetus, and helps to organise the yearly fundraising triathlon. Nicholas holds a degree in Geography from King’s College London.

Email: [email protected]

Nick Minns

Director | Contingent Risks

Bringing expertise from the Accountancy and Banking sectors, Nick focusses on finance solutions and product development. Before joining the Structured Solutions team, Nick held roles at Barclays that included front office structuring in the investment bank, regulatory capital, green finance and treasury. Nick is also a qualified accountant, having practiced at PwC before he started a career in banking.

Email: [email protected]

Nikhil Singal

Director | W&I

Nikhil is a Director at Howden M&A and leads the placement of W&I and specific risk insurance policies on UK and multi-jurisdictional M&A transactions. Nikhil also co-leads the specialist secondaries practice at Howden M&A, having been at the forefront of insurance innovation in this part of the market over the last four years. He previously worked in the London and Delhi offices of a large Indian law firm. He also actively supports Howden M&A's initiatives in development of new business in emerging markets, including India. Nikhil is dual qualified in UK and India, and holds a Masters in Corporate Law (MCL) from University of Cambridge.

Email: [email protected]

Oliver Cain

Analyst | Title

Oliver is a Title Analyst at Howden M&A, specialising in the placement of Title and Legal Indemnity insurance policies across the UK and Europe. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Oliver graduated with an LLB (Hons) in Law from the University of Exeter. Outside of work Oliver enjoys playing sports, cooking and skiing.

Email: [email protected]

Oliver Herbert Williams

Senior Associate | Environmental

Oliver is an Environmental Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A he studied Animal Biology and Conservation at Oxford Brookes University. At Howden M&A Ollie supports Corporates, PE funds and real estate owners/developers with identifying environmental risks and structuring appropriate insurance policies. Ollie is currently studying towards his CII qualifications. Outside of work he enjoys playing tennis, golf and skiing.

Email: [email protected]

Patrick Voisey

Managing Director | Head of Tax & Contingent Risks

Patrick is Head of Tax & Contingent Risks at Howden M&A, leading a team of tax risk insurance experts across 8 European jurisdictions which provides bespoke insurance solutions for risks arising on M&A transactions, stand-alone investments or ongoing business activities. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Patrick was a Director in a front office structuring team at Barclays, developing and executing complex cross-border transactions across a range of asset classes. Patrick is also a qualified solicitor, having worked as an associate in the Tax team at Freshfields before he started a career in banking. Outside of work, Patrick enjoys spending time with his family and playing tennis and golf.

Email: [email protected]

Petrit Jupolli

Associate | W&I

Petrit joined Howden M&A after graduating from University College London with BSc in Statistics, Economics and Finance. Outside of work, Petrit enjoys running, playing basketball, and is an avid film fan.

Email: [email protected]

Rachel Swan

Associate Director | Training & Development

Prior to joining Howden M&A, Rachel worked as a corporate M&A lawyer at Clifford Chance followed by Cooley LLP, a leading West Coast law firm, where she focused on a wide variety of private M&A transactions, with a particular focus on tech and life-sciences. At Howden M&A, Rachel works in the Training and Development team, working closely with all jurisdictions and specialities to ensure robust training and development opportunities. Previously, Rachel worked in the W&I team on transactions across all industries, placing W&I insurance for both corporates and PE funds. Rachel has a LLB from Durham. Outside of work Rachel enjoys long distance running, cycling and travel.

Email: [email protected]

Richard Campbell

Senior Associate | Claims

Richard is an Associate in the Claims team at Howden M&A. Prior to joining, Richard was a solicitor advocate at Rradar, working predominantly in litigated D&O claims. At Howden M&A, Richard supports our clients throughout the claims process. Richard has a LLB (Hons) from De Montfort University. Outside of work Richard enjoys food and travel.

Email: [email protected]

Ruby Brunner

Team Administrator | Operations

Email: [email protected]

Sachin Kucheria

Senior Associate | W&I

Sachin is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Sachin undertook a variety of work placements including internships within Private Equity and Insurance. At Howden M&A, Sachin works in the Private Equity team with a focus on placing W&I policies for transactions in the UK and continental Europe. Sachin has a BSc in Mathematics with Statistics from the University of Nottingham. Outside of work, Sachin enjoys playing sports, travelling and reading.

Email: [email protected]

Sara Waller

Executive Assistant | Operations

Sara is an Executive Assistant at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A in 2017, Sara worked for the Property & Casualty and Claims Teams at RKH Specialty for 12 years. Sara provides EA support to the Managing Directors and Operations Director, as well as managing many internal processes across the team both in the UK and the European offices.

Email: [email protected]

Sean Jukes

Associate | Lenders Insurance Advisory

Sean is an Associate at Howden M&A, based in London. Sean joined from Marsh UK where he spent nearly 4 years working within Marsh’s Lenders Insurance Advisory (LIA) practice. Sean has advised lenders on project financings worldwide, in sectors such as renewable energy, infrastructure, mining, power and satellites. Sean joins to enhance and grow Howden M&A’s LIA offering. Sean holds a BSc in Geography from the University of Bristol. He also holds the Advanced Diploma in Insurance (ACII) from the Chartered Insurance Institute and the Level 6 Senior Insurance Professional Apprenticeship. Outside of work, Sean enjoys cycling, swimming, travelling and socialising.

Email: [email protected]

Shannon Thomas

Analyst | W&I

Shannon is an Analyst in the W&I team, focusing on placing W&I insurance for UK real estate and operational transactions. Shannon has a BA in Business & Management from the University of Portsmouth and an MSc in Security & Leadership Studies from King's College London. Outside of work, Shannon is a keen football fan, playing and watching the game whenever she can.

Email: [email protected]

Shauna O'Toole

Senior Associate | Operations

Shauna is an Operations Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Shauna worked at Allianz where she advised on a range of insurance products such as Property, Commercial and Motor. At Howden M&A, Shauna works within the Operations team and assists in technical, operational and financial matters. Shauna has a BA (Hons) Degree in Business and Human Resource Management from Dublin Business School. Outside of work, Shauna enjoys travelling and photography.

Email: [email protected]

Shayan Mohammed

Intern | Operations

Email: [email protected]

Shobana Bala

Associate Director | Title

Shobana is an Associate Director in the Title Insurance team at Howden M&A. She specialises in the placement of title and legal indemnity insurance. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Shobana was previously a Senior Commercial Underwriter (Legal Indemnities) at First Title and more recently at Titlesolv (now Westcor). Shobana is a qualified commercial real estate lawyer having practised at Bryan Cave Leighton Paisner and also in house as Legal Counsel for Goodman UK Limited. Shobana has a LLB (Hons) from the University of Essex and an LLM in Corporate and Commercial Law from University College London. Outside of work Shobana enjoys socialising with her book club and planning her next holiday adventure!

Email: [email protected]

Sophie Primrose

Associate I Tax & Contingent Risks

Prior to joining Howden M&A, Sophie worked at KPMG New Zealand in the M&A Tax Team where she managed cross border transactions in various industries including private equity, infrastructure and real estate. Sophie holds a Bachelor of Law and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Otago, and she is an enrolled Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand.

Email: [email protected]

Sylvie Hodgson Smith

Associate | Environmental

Prior to joining Howden M&A, Sylvia worked as an Analyst at the UK's leading independent insurance consultancy, Mactavish, where she specialised in corporate risk and policy wording analysis. Sylvia has a degree in Geography (BA) from the University of Cambridge. At Howden M&A, Sylvia works in the Environmental team, assessing environmental risk for transactions and structuring insurance solutions. Outside of work, Sylvia sings in the City of London Choir and enjoys walking and hiking.

Email: [email protected]

Tami Mustafa

Associate | Training & Development

Before joining Howden M&A, Tami worked at leading Law firms focusing on Commercial Real Estate and Litigation Transactions in the UK and Europe. Tami has an LLB (Hons) in Law from Coventry University and is currently working towards her CII qualifications. Outside of work Tami enjoys fitness, cooking and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Tatiana Kelman

Associate | Claims

Tatiana is an Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Tatiana studied an LLB Law degree at the University of East Anglia. At Howden M&A, Tatiana analyses and reviews insurance claims for accuracy and eligibility. Outside of work Tatiana enjoys socialising with friends and has a passion for food.

Email: [email protected]

Theo Taylor

Associate Director | W&I

Theo is an Associate Director at Howden M&A and is a solicitor qualified in England & Wales. At Howden M&A, Theo works on transactions across all industries with a particular focus on the placement of W&I insurance policies across Europe. Theo joined us from Weil Gotshal & Manges LLP in London having spent time as an Associate in the Private Equity team and also on secondment at a leading international private equity firm. Before that, Theo qualified and practised as a solicitor in the Corporate team at Slaughter and May. Theo holds a BA (Hons) Jurisprudence from the University of Oxford.

Email:

Thomas Hamilton

Associate Director | Title

Thomas is an Associate Director at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden M&A, Tom worked at a Lloyds syndicate (DTW1991) where he worked within the syndicate claims team. At Howden M&A Tom works within the Title team assisting in placing the title and legal indemnity policies. Tom has a degree in Law with American Law from University of East Anglia. Outside of work Tom enjoys rugby, motorsport and travelling.

Email: [email protected]

Thomas Kelly

Senior Associate | Tax & Contingent Risks

Tom is a Senior Associate in the Contingent Risks team at Howden M&A and a member of the Climate, Risk and Resilience team at Howden Group Holdings. Prior to joining the team, Tom worked in the reinsurance and financial lines teams on the Howden graduate scheme, which included a secondment to the Department for International Trade where he worked in their insurance and climate resilience team, helping to drive their resilience campaign and engage with the insurance sector. Tom has a BA honours degree in History from the University of Bristol and a MSc in History of International Relations from the London School of Economics. In his spare time he enjoys golf, tennis, good food and spending time with friends and family.

Email: [email protected]

Tom Muskett

Associate Director | Operations

Email: [email protected]

Tolu Lawal

Senior Associate | W&I

Tolu is a Senior Associate at Howden M&A. Prior to joining Howden, Tolu worked in the M&A team at Aon advising large private equity and corporate clients on the placement of W&I insurance. At Howden, Tolu continues to advise clients on the placement of W&I insurance for both real estate and operational transactions. Tolu holds and LLB (Hons) and an LLM in Oil and Gas Law from the University of Aberdeen.

Email: [email protected]