Howden Re has established a new office in Ireland, expanding its European footprint and strengthening its ability to support clients across the country’s MGA and captive segments, alongside the domestic insurance market. David Carpenter has been appointed director, Howden Re Ireland. Based in Dublin, Carpenter brings over 20 years of experience in reinsurance and broking across Dublin, London and international markets, most recently at McGill and Partners. He holds an MSc in Insurance and Risk Management and is a Fellow of the Chartered Insurance Institute. Carpenter is tasked with building a local team to deliver reinsurance solutions for Irish insurers, MGAs and captives. The move brings clients closer to Howden Re’s data-led reinsurance, analytics and capital advisory capabilities, delivered through a local team. Ireland is the fourth-largest insurance market in the EU, generating over €100 billion in annual premiums. As the only English-speaking EU member, it serves as a bridge between the EU and the US, and is becoming a strategic hub for global risk capital as international insurers shift underwriting and reinsurance functions to the country. Matthew Westerman, managing director, Howden Re International, UK&I, says: “Ireland is an important market for our clients, particularly across the domestic insurance space, but also for global clients with complementary Irish portfolios, as well as the MGA and captive segments where demand for specialist reinsurance continues to grow. By investing locally, we’re making it easier for clients to access world-class analytical, broking and advisory support. “David’s appointment underlines that ambition. He brings exceptional technical knowledge, a deep understanding of how to align capital with client objectives, and extensive local experience of the Irish market and its evolving regulatory and capital landscape. By investing locally, we continue to meet our clients where they need us, combining local presence with global expertise.” Carpenter says: “Our focus is to provide clear, practical reinsurance advise that helps clients connect capital to risk more effectively. Domestic and international insurers operating in this market, MGAs and captives deserve locally based reinsurance advice, backed by the best analytical and broking expertise in the market. I’m delighted to be joining this dedicated team as we build our reinsurance presence in the Irish market.” Sebastian Cook, deputy CEO, Howden Re International, says: “Ireland’s role in the European reinsurance landscape has evolved quickly. By establishing an on-the-ground presence, Howden Re is building on the extensive work of our retail colleagues who have established a trusted and recognised brand across Ireland. Together, we will bring clients closer to the insight, capacity and capital they need, delivered by a team that understands the market and its direction.”
