Ryan Houston Broking Group on starting your own insurance brokerage

Ryan Houston is an experienced broker with over 25 years in the insurance industry, mainly in commercial broking in his local Basingstoke market.

Following the acquisition of the regional broker he worked for by a more corporate broking consolidator, he made the decision to step out to start his own brokerage, with the objective of providing local commercial businesses with a dedicated independent personal service.

Why Movo?

An independent model
The first key decision was which Appointed Representative principal to work with. Central to his decision that  Movo was the right partner was a shared belief in the importance of an independent broking model. Ryan was looking for support, but didn’t want to be restricted or directed in terms of his approach to business, the insurer markets he used or how he delivered and charged for services.

Dealing directly with insurers

Being able to deal directly with insurers was an important element of the decision. Ryan sees his ability to present, broke and place risks himself as a fundamental part of his role, and key to winning business and delivering the right solutions for clients.

Transparent costs

Movo’s transparent fee structure which allows for Appointed Representatives to keep all of their own commission and fees was also attractive, allowing him to keep a greater share of the income generated to re-invest in the business.

Securing start up funding was a key enabler
Ryan was able to secure investment in his business to fund initial start up and salary costs for year one while his first clients were won – providing peace of mind and enabling him to focus on winning the profitable long term clients he wanted to build his business.

Houston Broking Group

Ryan launched Houston Broking Group in July 2023, and the business has gone from strength to strength since then.

His reputation and extensive business network in the Basingstoke area meant that he was able to secure a pipeline of referred clients, who were looking for the personal service he delivers.

Once out of covenant, a number of his former clients have also followed him to his new business.

Ryan has now taken on his first Account Executive who joined him in July 2024 , and has also purchased a book of business from another Movo Appointed Representative who is looking to step back his work commitments.

Houston Broking Group made a profit in its first year of trading, and as at November 2024, controls about £1.5 million of gross written premium, with a strong pipeline and a realistic expectation of more than doubling the business’ income in 2025.

Ryan’s advice for brokers thinking of starting their own business

“First and foremost – plan,  plan, plan – try to foresee your first twelve months of trading as clearly as you possibly can.”

“Speak to as many people as possible who have been through what you want to do (launching their own business)“

“Be brave, take the leap! – you’ll be able to do it. There’s no magic wand or anything extra special needed to succeed – just a willingness to do the right things to build a business with the clients’ best interests at heart”