A little over a year ago, in summer 2023, the Howden Norwich office opened its doors for the first time. Directors, James Monkhouse and Katherine Campbell, began the process of building their team and client base in this new and unique insurance broking service for the Norfolk area. The experienced and enthusiastic insurance brokers couldn’t wait to start connecting with customers – both established and new – offering up a host of commercial and risk management services and insight to the local East Anglia community in and around Norfolk. So, now’s a great time to reflect on what’s happened for both the staff and the wide range of businesses partnering with Howden. In this small window of time partnerships have thrived. Casual pop-ins from the curious have often developed into in-depth discussions on what we can do to help, which in turn have resulted in a host of happy, returning customers. One of whom, The Thursford Collection, provided this welcome feedback. “From the moment we engaged with James, Samantha, and the team, we were impressed by their dedication to understanding the unique needs of our business, ensuring that we received the best coverage at the most competitive rates. The team are responsive, approachable, and always ready to assist with any queries or concerns. Thanks to Howden, Norwich, we feel confident that our business is comprehensively protected. We would recommend their services to any business seeking a reliable, knowledgeable, and transparent insurance broker, with access to global markets combined with local and personable service.” When I reflect on how we’ve become so much a part of the local community so quickly, I remind myself of all the ways in which Howden does insurance differently. The fact that we’re employee-owned means that customers are by no means simply a name on a file. We’re as invested in their success as much as our own. Clients can be assured our staff are here for the long-term, committed to the mutual success of our partnerships with them, and that their trusted advisors are genuine business stakeholders and decision makers. Another great source of pride and something that I, never take for granted, is the next-level expertise and authentic friendliness of my team. They not only understand our best-in-class products and solutions inside-out but take the time to know the needs of the local enterprises who work with us. Whether that’s a bakery on a high street or a large factory unit on an industrial park, I know we can find insurance cover suitable for all. Our people all hold chartered qualifications or are in the process of working towards them, which reflects that they’re invested in a long-term future for Howden in Norfolk. What does all of the above mean for our clients? On top of site visits so the team can get a real sense of the business environment and day-to-day operations, you also get to know the person at the end of a phone or email in a real-world sense. So, if a client has to make a claim, it’s not to a faceless voice – it’s to someone they know, and someone who cares. Looking ahead to the coming year, there’s something that we as a team cannot wait to develop further, and that’s getting involved with the local community on a more granular level and exploring more ways to support charities in the area. On the first point, we’re already working closely with the Chamber of Commerce, and on the charity side, this is very much team-led, with many suggestions for ways in which we can volunteer our time. There have been so many achievements since opening, and what we at Howden Norwich sensed then is still so true – Norfolk is a wonderful and thriving community and a great place not just to “do business”, but tangibly contribute to the success and future of all the other businesses we’re so lucky to partner with. If you’d like to find out more about Howden Norwich, visit howdenbroking.com/norwich By James Monkhouse, Howden Norwich – Branch Director
