Howden eyes European expansion with ‘significant’ hire

Howden M&A, an international mergers & acquisitions and structured solutions insurance broker, has tapped a “significant hire” in France to help drive its European expansion plan.

Charles-Henri Gridel has joined the broker as associate director, business development Europe, to support Howden M&A’s commitment to expand its European platform.

He will lead the business development function across Continental Europe, building Howden M&A's brand profile with investment funds, lawyers, M&A bankers, corporates and the financial services industry. He will be also responsible for developing the portfolio of clients for M&A insurance solutions, including warranty and indemnity, title and real estate risks, tax risks and structuring, environmental issues and contingent risks.

Gridel has more than 20 years of experience in the professional services sector, most recently he 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. Gridel began his career in Marketing at BNP Paribas before joining the leading international law firm Gide as part of the Business Development team, holding positions in Paris and Shanghai during his tenure.

Gridel’s onboarding follows the appointment of Nicolas Aubert as CEO of France earlier this year.

Lucie Bocel, co-head, Howden M&A, France said: "Charles-Henri’s appointment reinforces our commitment to the French M&A market and our continued ambition to strengthen Howden’s position in Europe. We are delighted to have Charles-Henri on board and welcome the on-the-ground, local support he will provide as part of our development strategy for the region.”

Drew Wardrope, managing director, Howden M&A, added: “Charles-Henri’s appointment is reflective of Howden M&A’s broader strategy to invest in talent and expertise. His proven track record and experience of business development in the professional services sector will make him an invaluable addition to our growing M&A insurance team in Paris.”

Luigi Sturani, CEO of Howden Europe, said: “Our ambition to position ourselves as one of the leading brokers in Europe is no secret. Attracting top talent is key in enabling Howden to rapidly grow across the continent and establish itself as the European-focused alternative in the broking market, bringing more choice to clients. I am delighted that Charles-Henri has decided to join our team and I look forward to welcoming him to Howden.”

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