Howden appoints John Deegan to UK board amid global benefits expansion

Howden Employee Benefits has appointed former Mercer Marsh Benefits leader John Deegan to its UK board as it continues to expand its international employee benefits business.

Deegan joins as a non-executive director and will also advise Howden’s Global Employee Benefits Executive Leadership Team, bringing more than 25 years’ experience in the sector.

The appointment strengthens Howden’s multinational benefits expertise as employers increasingly look to manage health, wellbeing and employee benefits consistently across different countries, while responding to the needs of local workforces.

Deegan previously held senior roles across Mercer Marsh Benefits and its predecessor businesses, including leading its multinational employee benefits business and taking responsibility for Darwin, its global benefits technology platform.

During his career, he has led colleagues and client teams across more than 70 countries, working with multinational employers to manage benefits across different markets and combine local expertise with technology and a consistent approach.

Howden said Deegan’s appointment comes as its Employee Benefits business continues to expand internationally and develop its proposition for multinational employers.

Glenn Thomas, CEO and global practice leader, health and employee benefits at Howden, said: “Having worked with John in the past and formed a strong relationship over the years, I believe he will bring huge value to Howden. John knows this market inside out and has spent his career working with multinational employers, building strong teams and understanding what clients need from their benefits partner. He will also fit extremely well into our People First culture.

“We are building something exciting at Howden and there is a real opportunity ahead of us. Having John on the board brings experience, perspective and the right sort of challenge. I am delighted he is joining us.”

Deegan said: “What drew me to Howden was the people, the energy and the chance to be part of a business that is building with real intent.

“Employers want a partner that understands the bigger picture but can also deliver where their people are. Howden has the ambition and the local expertise to do that well. I am looking forward to working with Glenn and the team.”

Deegan will support and advise the UK board in a non-executive capacity as Howden continues its global expansion.

The move reflects the increasingly international nature of employee benefits strategy. Large employers are balancing demands for greater consistency across their benefits provision with the need to ensure health and wellbeing support remains relevant and accessible to employees in individual markets.