Marsh & McLennan elevates Martine Ferland to chief of Mercer

Risk and strategy specialist Marsh & McLennan Companies announced key leadership changes on Thursday, in a bid to further its growth strategy.

The New York and London-listed firm said Martine Ferland had been appointed to the role of president and chief executive officer of Mercer, effective 1 March.

It said that in her new role, Ferland would report to Marsh & McLennan’s president and CEO Dan Glaser, and join the company’s executive committee.

“Martine is a talented executive who possesses broad global experience and a proven record of success,” said Dan Glaser.

“Her deep understanding of our business and clients, and more than 30 years of experience across the health, wealth and career spectrum, has uniquely prepared her for the challenge.”

Ferland joined Mercer in 2011 as retirement business leader for the Europe and Pacific region.

She then served as Europe and Pacific region president, and co-president of global health, before being named Mercer group president.

Julio A. Portalatin, who served as Mercer’s president and CEO for seven years, would become a vice-chairman of Marsh & McLennan Companies.

In that new role, he would continue to report to Glaser.

“Julio energised Mercer colleagues and brought our mission and values to life through the work we do,” Dan Glaser added.

“He oversaw a major repositioning of the business that resulted in Mercer’s operating income nearly doubling and assets under delegated management increasing fivefold.

“Julio’s legacy with Mercer is one of focused execution, impressive financial performance, and colleague development. I’m pleased the company will continue to benefit from his advice and counsel.”