Mercer appoints Jane Barker CBE as chair of UK board

Marsh & McLennan subsidiary Mercer has appointed Jane Barker CBE to take over from Sir Peter Middleton as chair of its UK board when Middleton retires at the end of the month.

An executive board member at Mercer since 2010 and the current chairman at sister company Marsh, Barker was selected for her extensive board experience and her considerable knowledge of Mercer and the business environment within which it operates, according to Mercer.

Barker is chief executive of Lloyd’s syndicate Equitas Ltd, a position she has held for the past seven years, having served as its finance director since 1995. Previously, she was chief operating officer of the London Stock Exchange.

Barker was recently appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) for services to the financial and insurance industries and for her voluntary work.

Mercer UK chief executive Fiona Dunsire said: “We are delighted that Jane, our first female board member, has agreed to take on the role of chair. She will, as part of her new role, also lead Mercer’s remuneration and audit committees. Jane is already familiar with Mercer and brings with her a wealth of business knowledge, drawn from a diverse range of high-profile positions, from which we will benefit.

“On behalf of the board and everyone at Mercer, I would like to thank Sir Peter, not only for his strong leadership over his five years as chair, but also for the dedication and commitment he has had towards shaping the strategic direction of Mercer in the UK.”