International insurance broker Howden has announced the acquisition of independent French marine broker Seasecure Group.
The acquisition of Seasecure Group, is one of France’s largest Marine and Cargo insurance brokers, is expected to help Howden’s continued expansion into the French market.
Founded in 2008 and headed by Jean Brossollet, Seasecure comprises two operating entities, Seasecure and Guian, having acquired the latter, a Le Havre-based marine broker, in 2018.
Together, Guian and Seasecure serve shipowners, charterers, operators, and all actors in the supply chain. Guian’s expertise is particularly recognised in the fields of merchant and service vessels, inland waterways and French & international fisheries insurance.
With the acquisition completed, Brossollet will become Director of Marine and Cargo for Howden France, reporting to Nicolas Aubert, President and General Manager, Howden France.
“Seasecure and Guian provide the talent, technical knowledge and skills that will allow us to both expand and enhance our platform in France,” said Nicolas Aubert, President and General Manager, Howden France.
“Their specialist positioning is perfectly aligned with our strategy for Howden France. Building on the acquisitions of C.R.F and Théorème, this latest deal reaffirms our ambition to build a platform based on leading experience and expertise, which will welcome the best talents in the French insurance market.”
“Seasecure and Guian are among the last French brokers whose activity is exclusively dedicated to risk management in the Marine and Cargo sector,” added Brossollet.
“With the acquisition of Seasecure and Guian, Howden is laying the foundations of a Marine branch that will be significant in France. This combination opens up tremendous opportunities for our clients and our teams!”
Luigi Sturani, CEO, Howden Europe also commented: “Partnering with strong strategic and culturally aligned businesses is enabling Howden to rapidly grow across the Continent. The acquisition of Seasecure Group, the last remaining independent marine broker in France, brings us a step closer in fulfilling our ambition to position ourselves among the leading brokers in France. I’m looking forward to welcoming Seasecure Group’s employees and clients to Howden.”
Nicolas Aubert, President and General Manager, Howden France, further stated: “Having Jean’s experience and enthusiasm to drive our strategy and our Marine and Cargo business is an extraordinary opportunity for Howden. Thanks to him, we have a great team and look forward to strengthening it across France by welcoming other industry specialists who want to join our project.”
