Howden, a UK-based insurance broker, has agreed to acquire the insurance services of the Church of Scotland, known as Church of Scotland Insurance Services (Cosis). The acquisition follows a strategic review by the Church of Scotland to step away from direct involvement in insurance provision. Cosis has historically arranged insurance cover for Church properties through a bespoke scheme with Aviva, which will now be administered by Howden. As part of the agreement, all operational Cosis employees will transition to Howden’s Scottish commercial team, ensuring continuity of service for clients.
The acquisition is a result of the planned retirement of Cosis’ directors, including Chief Executive Barry Clarkson, who will remain to oversee the deregulation process and ensure a smooth transition. Clarkson expressed his delight at partnering with Howden, citing the company’s strong presence in Scotland, expertise in the not-for-profit and heritage sectors, and customer-centric approach. Howden’s Scottish Commercial Director, Graeme Christie, also welcomed the new colleagues and clients from Cosis, stating that the company is excited to provide professional insurance and risk services that will exceed expectations and provide long-term value to congregations.
The acquisition will see Howden take on the administration of the bespoke insurance scheme, which will continue to be serviced from its Edinburgh office. This will enable the company to leverage its expertise and resources to provide tailored insurance solutions to the Church of Scotland’s congregations. With its strong reputation and local presence, Howden is well-positioned to deliver high-quality services to its new clients. Overall, the acquisition is a positive development for both parties, enabling the Church of Scotland to focus on its core activities while ensuring that its insurance needs are met by a reputable and experienced broker.