The Crest Financial Services managing director won the Asia-Pacific award through AXA for his professional and practice development and his contribution to the Maitland and wider community.

Mr Howden said he was thrilled to win the award and is looking forward to proving to his Maitland clients that he is worthy of the achievement.

“I was surprised and I didn’t expect it and I look forward to living up to the acknowledgement and the service and challenges in the future,” Mr Howden said.

Compton and Associates colleague Keith Compton said he is proud to be associated with Mr Howden.

“I am pleased to be associated with him and to refer a number of our clients through to him,” Mr Compton said.

Mr Howden’s practice is based in Newcastle and he is looking to establish a Maitland branch in the near future.