Miller to Acquire Specialist Reinsurance Broker AHJ

Deal News | Feb 03, 2025 | Re-Insurance News

Miller to Acquire Specialist Reinsurance Broker AHJ

Miller, an independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker, has announced its acquisition of AHJ Holdings Ltd (AHJ), which is the parent company of both Alwen Hough Johnson Ltd and AHJ Europe AS. AHJ, established in 1973, is recognized as a specialist reinsurance broker with a focus on Property & Casualty and Marine & Energy sectors, while also dealing with select niche insurance lines. This acquisition is part of Miller's ongoing strategic expansion in the reinsurance field, following recent acquisitions of 4809 Brokers and Bruzon in 2024. AHJ, under the leadership of Gary Masters, employs 90 people across locations in London and Scandinavia, which will provide Miller with an immediate scale and expertise, especially in treaty reinsurance. Expected to finalize in Q2 of 2025, this deal will broaden Miller's presence in the Nordic, Caribbean, and North American markets. Miller's CEO, James Hands, noted that this is the most significant investment for the company since it returned to independence in 2021, aligning perfectly with Miller's client-first philosophy and growth ambitions. Both companies share a commitment to specialization and have a synergistic culture that promises new opportunities while maintaining AHJ's distinct qualities. The acquisition was advised by Macquarie Capital, Herbert Smith Freehills, and PwC on Miller's side and by Grant Thornton and Stephenson Harwood on AHJ's side.

Sectors

  • Insurance and Reinsurance
  • Financial Advisory

Geography

  • United Kingdom – AHJ is based in London, UK, and Miller is also an independent entity within the UK which represents a significant jurisdiction for the acquisition.
  • Scandinavia – AHJ operates offices in this region, which will be an area of growth for Miller post-acquisition.
  • North America – The acquisition will provide Miller access to AHJ's strong presence in the North American treaty reinsurance market.

Industry

  • Insurance and Reinsurance – The acquisition involves companies providing specialist insurance and reinsurance services, specifically focusing on Property & Casualty, and Marine & Energy sectors.
  • Financial Advisory – Multiple financial advisory firms played a role in the acquisition process as advisors to the buyer and the seller.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    MillerBuyerCompanyAn independent specialist insurance and reinsurance broker.
    AHJ Holdings LtdTarget CompanyCompanyThe parent company of Alwen Hough Johnson Ltd and AHJ Europe AS, a reinsurance broker.
    Gary MastersCEO of AHJPersonHead of AHJ Holdings, which is set to be acquired by Miller.
    James HandsCEO of MillerPersonOverseeing Miller's strategic acquisition of AHJ.
    Macquarie CapitalFinancial Advisor to MillerCompanyAdvisory firm providing financial guidance to Miller for the acquisition.
    Herbert Smith FreehillsLegal Advisor to MillerCompanyProvided legal advice to Miller regarding the acquisition.
    PwCAdvisor to MillerCompanyHandled strategic advisory aspects of the acquisition for Miller.
    Grant ThorntonFinancial Advisor to AHJCompanyProvided financial advisory services to AHJ during the sale.
    Stephenson HarwoodLegal Advisor to AHJCompanyProvided legal advice to AHJ in the acquisition process.