New commercial broker based in Leeds launched

A new commercial broker has been launched in Leeds.

Called Hardings Insurance Brokers, the Yorkshire-based firm began trading on 4 March 2026. Its expertise spans multiple areas, including property owners, manufacturing and motor trade.

It was founded by Tom Butler and Martin Billington. Butler began his insurance career in 1992 as an apprentice broker at Schofield Insurance, later becoming partner and then director before the business was sold to Ardonagh in 2021.

“Billington and I wanted to build something that reflects how we believe broking should be done. Senior led, advice driven and building long-term relationships with clients,” Butler said.

“We’re not trying to be the biggest broker in our space. Our aim is simply to be the most trusted.”

Billington, meanwhile, entered the industry in 2006 and has developed expertise across commercial insurance and financial lines, including professional indemnity and cyber risks.

He said: “Our goal is to become known as a trusted independent broker that businesses can rely on.

”We want clients to see us as long term partners who understand their risks and support their growth.”

Appointed representative

Hardings Insurance Brokers operates as an appointed representative of Momentum Broker Solutions, the UK’s independent AR network.

Through this partnership, the business gets operational support, insurer access and regulatory infrastructure while maintaining independence in its client relationships and growth strategy.

Alistair Body, business development director at Momentum Broker Solutions, said: “Butler and Billington bring a huge amount of experience and a very clear vision for the kind of brokerage they want to build.

”Their focus on trust, expertise and relationships reflects exactly what independent broking does best.”