International insurance broker Howden has announced the appointment of Tim Hopgood to the newly created role of HR Director, Howden UK & Ireland.
Howden suggests that the role reflects the importance the firm places on its ‘people first’ principles and on the retention and attraction of top talent to drive its growth strategy.
Hopgood joins Howden from Danone, where he spent the last 12 years of his career, most recently serving as Business Services HR Director.
Combined, he holds over two decades of experience in HR, having worked for a number of companies, including Lloyds Banking Group and Starbucks Coffee Co.
Hopgood commented, “I am thrilled to be joining Howden, a company that has a culture of employee ownership at its core.
“Its ‘people first’ attitude enables Howden to truly engage and support its employees in all areas, something that especially attracted me to the role.
“It will be hugely rewarding to be part of a company that has such a fantastic growth trajectory, and I am very excited to join the HR team at this important time for the business.”
Hopgood’s appointment was effective from 30 January and he reports to Carl Shuker, CEO of Howden UK & Ireland, and Diahann Williams, Group HR Director, Howden Group.
Shuker said, “Tim’s appointment comes at a critical time for us as we undertake the integration of our UK and Ireland businesses. To optimise success, we must ensure we have the best HR operating model, infrastructure and tools to support our colleagues through this exciting period of accelerated growth.
“Tim will provide the necessary level of leadership and influence to effectively guide us whilst we integrate and evolve our people development practices, policies and talent acquisition, whilst ensuring our exceptional client service remains in place.”
