Employee benefits provider boosts team with key hires

Leeds-based employee benefits firm Aceso Health and Group Risk has made two senior appointments to its growing national team.

Part of the Attis Insurance group, launched last year by Joe Henderson who sold his Leeds-based Henderson Insurance business to US firm Aon in 2017, Aceso provides benefits packages covering employee health and wellbeing and group risk. Headquartered in Leeds, the firm has five regional offices located across the North of England and the Midlands.

Paul Collin joins the firm as director of group risk, while Matt Howarth, a specialist in private medical insurance and wellbeing, comes on board as account executive with responsibility for business development.

Paul, who worked for Henderson for over a decade, is reunited with Aceso directors and former Henderson colleagues, Mike Picken and Louise Pratt. Beginning his financial services career at CGU, Paul worked for IFAs and insurance brokers at local, regional and national levels before specialising in group risk in 2015.

Matt has over a decade’s experience in the insurance industry and is also a former colleague of Louise.

Paul said: “Employee benefits are often misunderstood and poorly managed because they are constantly evolving. Especially in the post Covid world, where recruiting and retaining the best people is more challenging than ever, their importance to both employees and employers is becoming increasingly evident, with industry statistics showing benefits packages can now be even more desirable to employees than flexible working options.

“The best advice and support is more critical than ever for business owners, their people managers and ultimately their employees. That’s where Aceso can help and I’m really pleased to be joining the team.”

Executive director Mike Picken said: “We know Paul and Matt already share our strong ethos of customer care and we’re thrilled to welcome them to the firm.

“Health insurance is unlike insuring a car or a property because it’s extremely personal. We’re committed to providing the very best service and advice to customers, and ensuring they can always pick up the phone and speak to a qualified and experienced member of our team.”