The acquisition not only solidifies Howden’s footprint in Latin America and its plans to extend its footprint in Latin America, bolstering its capacity to cater to clients in the region effectively. The move also marks a substantial surge in its regional workforce.
Following the completion of the acquisition, Contacto will contribute to Howden’s Latin American team, elevating the total headcount to over 800 individuals spread across Peru, Mexico, Colombia, Chile, and Brazil. This expansion is backed by the support and coordination from Howden’s hub in Miami.
Contacto, founded in 1984 by Maximiliano Goller, has emerged as Peru’s second-largest insurance broker, specializing in Property & Casualty and Employee Benefits. Its primary focus lies on serving the precious metals mining industry, and since its acquisition by Buenaventura (BVN) in 1987, it has solidified its position in the Peruvian market. The company, headquartered in Lima, boasts a substantial client base of approximately 3,000, making it a key player in the local insurance landscape, as highlighted by Howden.
Pablo Bores, CEO of Howden LatAm, said the growing demand for specialised insurance solutions in Latin America means the move positions Howden strategically to meet the evolving needs of the region’s dynamic insurance market and underscores its commitment to strengthening its presence in Latin America.
He explained: “With the Contacto team on board, we will be the second largest insurance broker in Peru, providing a credible alternative for clients in the country. Howden LatAm is strengthening its position as a leading broker, combining local, specialised expertise with the scale of Howden’s international offering to meet growing client demand.”
Sonia Caamaño, CEO of International Growth Markets at Howden, commented on the agreement and characterized Contacto as the leading force in Peru’s insurance market. She highlighted the acquisition as a prime opportunity to fortify Howden’s influence in yet another Latin American economy.
She noted: “Adding Contacto’s talented team to our Latin American footprint solidifies Howden’s presence in the region and will enable us to provide the scale and bespoke solutions that our clients require.”
Giulio Valz-Gen, CEO of Contacto, also stated: “Joining the Howden family permanently is the logical next step in our growth strategy and represents an outstanding opportunity for our people and our clients.”
He added: “By leveraging Howden’s global network, data and analytics capabilities, and specialist expertise, we will provide the very best service for our clients and continue the growth momentum we have achieved as Contacto.”
Author: Joanna England
