Marsh & McLennan Companies Appoints New CEO For Mercer

Global insurance and risk management firm, Marsh & McLennan Companies, has announced the appointment of Martine Ferland as president and chief executive officer of Mercer, effective March 01, 2019.

Ferland is replacing the long-tenured Julio A. Portalatin, who spent seven-years “serving with distinction” as president and CEO of the global consulting firm. Portalatin is moving on to become a vice chairman of Marsh & McLennan Companies.

In their new positions, both Ferland and Portalatin will report to Marsh & McLennan’s president and CEO, Dan Glaser. Ferland will also become part of the company’s executive committee.

Glaser commented on Ferland’s appointment, saying: “Martine is a talented executive who possesses broad global experience and a proven record of success. 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 has been with Mercer for eight years. She joined in 2011 as the retirement business leader for the Europe and Pacific region. She was later promoted to Europe and Pacific region president and co-president, global health, before being named Mercer Group president.

Glaser said he’s pleased Marsh & McLennan Companies will continue to benefit from Portalatin’s expertise and counsel. He added: “Julio energized Mercer colleagues and brought our mission and values to life through the work we do. 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.”