Howden Re Inspire – Meet Nena Atkinson
In our Howden Re Inspire series, we are proud to showcase our amazing team.
It’s important to us that the businesses and divisions within Howden Re reflect and contribute to the culture that we at Howden are so proud of. We are a global business with an entrepreneurial mindset, and we put our people first in everything we do. We value independent thinkers, celebrate different perspectives and experiences, and strive to make Howden a great place to work.
Our collaborative approach and collective power make us an industry leader, but it’s our people who make it possible.
Whether they’re forging a unique path in or outside business, leading the way on community impact, giving back, or D&I initiatives, or demonstrating what it takes to make a difference, we are proud to introduce you to our team.
Be inspired by: Nena Atkinson, Associate Director, Howden Re
Meet Nena Atkinson, an Associate Director in Howden Re’s London office on the Strategic Advisory and Industry Analysis team. Nena joined Howden Re in 2023, after graduating from the University of St Andrews, where she studied International Relations.
“What really drew me to reinsurance was its intersection with geopolitics, economics and business”, said Nena. “It’s an industry that underpins almost everything, from global trade to disaster response and, on a more human level, your home and family. Ultimately, as an industry, it rewards curiosity.”
Nena’s strategic advisory and research work at Howden Re spans data and financial analysis as well as broker support, contributing to a wide range of research-driven and client-focussed projects.
She has researched and co-authored several flagship Howden Re reports across a range of specialisms, including MGAs, cyber and natural catastrophes.
Taking on a different challenge
Outside of work, Nena is taking part in a fundraising cycle as part of a team organised by her friend, Charlotte Hansen, in support of Charlotte’s mother, who was diagnosed with myeloma in August 2022. Together, the team is aiming to raise £10,000.
“Her strength and determination since her diagnosis inspires us every day that we’re out riding. Supporting this cause means a great deal to all of us,” Nena said.
The 450-kilometer multi-day cycle from London to Paris will raise funds for Myeloma UK and take place from 14 to 18 May.
“This distance and duration are a first for me,” said Nena, adding that in training, she is meeting and surpassing new limits to her endurance, both physically and mentally.
“We’re all a little bit intimidated by the cycle, but we’re making sure that we’re doing it together, and no one will be left behind,” she said. “If we have to jump off our bikes and run up a hill, then we’re going to do it. We’re all going to make it to Paris!”
Nena said the intense training is more than worth it, knowing the impact the fundraising will have. When the team arrives in Paris, she is most looking forward to sitting down at a boulangerie and enjoying “as many baguettes and croissants as possible!”
Saying yes to opportunity
Nena’s advice, for anyone in their career, no matter their seniority or experience, is to push yourself to try new experiences.
“Say yes to opportunity, very rarely do you regret saying yes,” Nena said.
Whether it’s on the road or in the office, she believes her confidence and ability to push herself would not be possible without her team alongside her.
“I think Howden Re is unique in our collaboration,” said Nena. “When I’m working on an RFP or team project, the first question we ask is how we can work together and who we can bring in from other teams to get the best outcome.”
Similarly, on those hard training days on the bike, Nena has found a strong sense of community within her team and fellow cyclists, all pushing each other towards personal goals while working together to find a cure for myeloma.