Mercer Super names new chief executive

Tim Barber will step down as the head of Mercer Super in October and be replaced by operating chief Claire Ross.

Barber will take on a new leadership position at Marsh McLennan developing growth strategies for small and medium enterprises in the Pacific region.

He will continue to report to Marsh McLennan Pacific chief commercial officer Marcus Pearson and remain based in Melbourne.

Mercer Superannuation chair Jim Minto thanked Barber for his leadership of Mercer Super through a "period of tremendous growth and transformation."

Barber oversaw the merger of BT Super into the Mercer Super Trust.

Ross brings over 30 years' experience in operational management and administration services leadership to the role.

She joined Mercer in 2007 and has since held a succession of senior leadership roles bringing deep expertise in superannuation and pensions globally.

She will report to Mercer Pacific Wealth chief executive Cathy Hales, who joined the firm last year.

Hales, who oversees the Mercer Super Trust, the firm's multi-manager and investment solutions business, and its superannuation services arm, said the appointments are demonstrable of a deep bench of talent.

"With a strong track record of operational effectiveness, Claire's passion for delivering positive outcomes for members to and through retirement will enable Mercer Super to be strategically positioned for the future," she said.

Meanwhile, Ross said Mercer Super is ideally placed in the market to harness its local knowledge and global scale, delivering "value for money" and "strong investment outcomes for members."

"Since I started my career, I have always been passionate about delivering exceptional member service and transforming how we raise the bar at every opportunity for our clients and members."