Howden acquires Ureta y Fernández Corredores de Seguros Limitada, expanding its footprint in Chile

Santiago, 17 June 2025 – Howden today announces that it has acquired Ureta & Fernandez Corredores de Seguros Limitada (“U&F”), an independent retail insurance broker headquartered in Santiago, Chile. Following completion of the acquisition, Felipe Ureta has stepped up as CEO of Howden Chile. 

This acquisition strengthens Howden’s existing position in Chile and marks a significant step in its Latam strategy to invest in and develop its presence in five key countries: Mexico, Colombia, Brazil, Peru and Chile, for the benefit of clients in the region. 

Founded by Felipe Ureta in 2010 and Matias Fernandez who joined him shortly after, U&F specialises in P&C, motor, civil liability, construction and marine hull insurance, with additional expertise in specialty lines including aviation, financial lines, and reinsurance. U&F also has a strong marine market presence in the south of Chile, servicing the fishing industry, reflecting Howden’s commitment to investing in local expertise. 

This follows the recent acquisition of Innova Re, one of the largest independent reinsurance brokers in Peru, further reinforcing Howden’s commitment to deliver growth in the region.

Sonia Caamaño, CEO, International Growth Markets, Howden, comments: “U&F have worked alongside Howden’s Marine specialty team for a number of years, and the leaders of our existing business in Chile saw in them a natural fit and succession.  Both Howden Chile and U&F have strong ambitions, and it was only through combining forces that our vision of providing an integrated and powerful proposition, with strong distribution and expertise could be realised.  By adding their talented team to our existing Chilean footprint, we solidify Howden’s presence in the country, enabling us to continue providing the scale and bespoke solutions that our clients require." 

Felipe Ureta, Founder and CEO U&F and new CEO of Howden Chile, added: “We have enjoyed a successful partnership with Howden over the years, and joining the Howden family permanently is a significant next step in our journey, enabling us to leverage the full force of Howden’s global capabilities and expertise to better serve our clients.”

Francisco Iglesis and Pedro Iñiguez, Howden Chile, added: “Through the acquisition of U&F we will be able to expand and strengthen our existing capabilities and service offering whilst maintaining our commitment to excellence in service.  We are excited about the world of new opportunities this acquisition will generate, whilst moving forward with the same principles and commitments that have always characterized and differentiated us in the market.”