International broking group Howden has announced two key appointments as part of an expansion into New Zealand.

Howden will have a presence in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch and has appointed René Hattingh as CEO Howden Broking New Zealand.

Howden Care, the group’s workplace claims management, rehabilitation and wellness business, will also launch in New Zealand with Cliff McCord appointed CEO.

Ms Hattingh joins from local broking firm Donaldson Brown, where she was a partner. She was previously Head of FinPro New Zealand at Marsh.

Prior to joining Howden, Mr McCord spent 20 years at Wellnz – a workplace claims management, rehabilitation and wellness business – where he progressed to become CEO for six years.

UK-based Howden launched in Australia earlier this year through a strategic partnership with Steadfast.

“Despite the current climate, Howden has gone from strength to strength in Australia, and we feel certain that our New Zealand team will deliver upon the same trajectory,” Howden Pacific CEO Matt Bacon said.