Matthew Collins
Managing Director
Matthew has 34 years broking and underwriting experience, both as part of the management team at an award-winning independent broker, as National Broking Director and UK Board member at Oval Insurance Broking and as Market Management Director at Arthur J Gallagher.
Matthew is a well-known figure within the insurance market, and, with his experience and connections, our clients benefit by being able to access specialist insurers at reduced distribution costs. Overseeing our growing sector development at Ascend, he has previously led teams that have won numerous industry awards. Matthew served on the Willis Towers Watson Networks Governance board member, helping form the future of the £500m gross premium network. Very hands on, you will find Matthew’s approach and different way of doing things very refreshing.
01245 449 061
Matthew.collins@ascendbroking.co.uk
Simon Horton
Transportation & Logistics Director
Simon heads up the growing Ascend Transportation department, specialising in the haulage, car transportation, freight and associated trades. With over 20 years transportation broking experience, Simon has held a number of high profile market positions, most recently as deputy managing director at Arthur J Gallagher, Feering. Simon has a wealth of experience developing and managing exclusive schemes and facilities within the transportation sector.
Simon is well known in the Transportation market and has experience handling multi national, large complex fleet and transit arrangements, through to difficult-to-place start ups.
Simon supports Barnet FC and has been known to enjoy the odd rock concert.
01245 373626
Simon.horton@ascendbroking.co.uk
Nigel Holmes
Development Executive
Nigel has vast sales and marketing experience, having worked in the furniture and textiles industries for over 30 years managing his own business. More recently, he set his hand to importing and distributing wine and spirits in the Canaries, returning to the UK to join our team.
Nigel is always looking to develop networks by using his ‘people skills’, and to learn new concepts.
Nigel is a passionate sportsman – still representing Essex at Seniors cricket – and a West Ham fan. He is a proud father of twin boys.
01245 373678
Nigel.holmes@ascendbroking.co.uk