With nearly 25 years of experience specializing in Energy and Marine, Nikki co-founded Ladies of Energy and Marine Insurance (LEMI) to help other women network and successfully navigate the industry.

Miller’s Energy specialist, Lianne Portman, recently caught up with Nikki Howes for an exclusive Q&A to discuss LEMI. Miller is one of the leading independent specialist (re)insurance broking firms operating in Lloyd’s, the London and international markets.

Based in Houston, Texas, LEMI is a blossoming organization that started as a conversation between colleagues who often found themselves on common ground, discussing the lack of women-friendly networking and social functions in the industry. LEMI was born from that dialogue. LEMI was founded in the fall of 2019, with a mission to support the advancement and professional growth of women in the Energy and Marine insurance industries. With an emphasis toward collaboration and camaraderie with social functions and networking opportunities more suited for all to participate.


Here’s an excerpt from the Q&A with Nikki:

Q: Why and how did you set up LEMI?

Nikki: “With the mission in mind, LEMI sponsors networking events to foster and cultivate relationships throughout the Energy and Marine insurance space. Beginning with the founding three, LEMI organized its first event in the Fall of 2019 and the response was overwhelming, indicating we had truly identified a need for which women in the industry were searching. Despite the pandemic, during the months following the first networking event, LEMI’s support base grew astronomically. Through LinkedIn and other social media, LEMI continues to focus on encouragement, education and networking opportunities. With a strong foundation in place, and growing member support, LEMI is well positioned to build on this momentum as we move forward.”

Read the Full Q&A


Join the Ladies of Energy & Marine Insurance Network!

Connect with LEMI on LinkedIn

EPIC Energy & Marine Practice

Put your trust in the team that knows energy insurance solutions. With a variety of onshore and offshore energy backgrounds and expertise that includes exploration, production, downstream and power, we offer energy insurance solutions that are second to none. Whether your business operates in the retail or wholesale sector, our global-market access offers the customized products you need.

MEET THE TEAM

Our Leaders

Nikki Howes Headshot
Nikki Howes

Leader of Energy & Marine Practice – Houston, TX