Insurance Times understands that around four Aon employees are expected to join new Henderson-backed broker

Newly launched Attis Insurance Brokers – backed by industry veteran Joe Henderson – is due to grow its team by 20 staff, with more insurance professionals expected to join from Aon, Insurance Times understands.

Attis, which has offices in northern Lincolnshire and Leeds, is being led by Henderson’s former employees Duane Bowers and Scott Mathieson, who are directors of the new business, reported Business Live.

Henderson’s role in the venture is to provide financial backing and mentorship.

To date, Attis has secured FCA regulation, with a team of 20 brokers already confirmed in Leeds. This includes ex-Jelf ACII qualified chartered insurance broker Matt Weeks and former Aon claims executive Tom Coome, as well as back office staff.

Insurance Times understands that Henderson Insurance Brokers’ former development director Neil Beck, alongside ex-Henderson director Ian Williams, have been approached about joining the team. 

In addition, Insurance Times understands from sources there are several more Aon Henderson staff who could leave to join their former boss. 

It appears Joe Henderson is recruiting ex-staff who were also shareholders in his broker. 

Duane Bowers, Scott Mathieson, Neil Beck and Ian Williams had all been ordinary B shareholders at Henderson Insurance Brokers before it sold to Aon in a £65.2m deal.

Henderson’s ‘who cares wins’

Aon acquired Henderson’s eponymous, Leeds-based business, Henderson Insurance Broking Group, in December 2017 for an at time undisclosed sum. The broker dealt with general insurance, health and benefits and trade credit insurance distribution.

Bowers told Business Live: “2020 was an unprecedented year for many businesses and one in which the importance of having the right support and protection was highlighted more than ever.

“While we can appreciate the benefits that have come from adopting more digital technologies and remote access – including streamlined processes, increased productivity and the environmental advantage of a significant decrease in paper usage – we also believe that personal service can remain a priority.”

Mathieson added: “We have an ethos of ‘who cares wins’.

“Being there for people during challenging times is what being an insurance broker is about, so what better time to build a business that puts people first?”

Aon declined to comment. Insurance Times has contacted Joe Henderson for comment.