Marsh McLennan lines up ex-Aon vet for new leadership post

Global broker  Marsh McLennan has picked the next president and chief executive officer of its wholly-owned subsidiary Mercer. The executive joined the business in 2014 following a 17-year tenure with Aon.

Pat Tomlinson (pictured) has been appointed president of Mercer, succeeding Martine Ferland who is set to retire.

Ferland will remain Mercer CEO and vice chair of Marsh McLennan and will oversee Mercer’s regional leaders until she retires on March 31, 2024.

Following Ferland’s retirement, Tomlinson will succeed her as president and CEO of Mercer and vice chair of Marsh McLennan, and he will join Marsh McLennan’s executive committee reporting to John Doyle, Marsh McLennan president and CEO.

As president, Tomlinson will report to Ferland and have management responsibility for Mercer’s global health, wealth and career practices. Tomlinson will retain his responsibilities as Marsh McLennan US and Canada CEO and Mercer US and Canada President in the near term.

Tomlinson joined Mercer in 2014 as US and Canada career business leader and, from 2018 to 2020, led the US East Market, where he guided Mercer's health, wealth, and career businesses. Prior to joining Mercer, he spent 17 years with Aon and served as an officer in the US Army.

Doyle said: “I am excited for Pat’s appointment as Mercer President. He is a leader with a proven record of success who delivers growth and drives transformation, and who possesses a deep understanding of our business and clients. I look forward to working with Pat in his new role.

“Mercer and Marsh McLennan colleagues will miss Martine’s exceptional and empathetic leadership. I’ve personally benefited from her counsel and have been inspired by her passion for our clients, our colleagues and our Company.”

Ferland commented: “I have full confidence in Pat having worked closely with him over the years. He builds high-performing teams with a commercial mindset, and a focus on collaboration and inclusion. I look forward to working with Pat to position Mercer for continued success.”

Tomlinson commented: “I am grateful for the opportunity to help lead Mercer and, with our colleagues, create the best outcomes for our clients. I’m also thankful for John’s and Martine’s leadership as we work through this period of transition.”

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