Mercer exec returns to Aus from the US

Mercer has announced that Jo-Anne Bloch has returned from the US to take on the role of partner and to lead the firm's business in Wollongong, effective 5 June 2017.

Bloch's appointment follows Mercer's acquisition of superannuation administration provider, Pillar, in late 2016. She returns to Australia after spending three years leading Mercer's New York-based Global Innovation Hub.

Bloch is one of six new partners to join the Australian business, including: Glenna O'Callaghan, Peter Baker and Judith Williams, who were recently promoted to partners and Chris Stevens, who was appointed as commercial operations leader.

Mercer has also announced that Nick White, director of portfolio construction research, has returned from the UK to continue in his role from the firm's Sydney office.

Commenting on the appointments, chief operating officer, Pacific, Andrew Godfrey, said: "This highly experienced team of Partners will contribute to the operational excellence, enhanced delivery of Mercer's strategy for client services, and support our future growth."

Bloch added: "I watched Mercer's acquisition of Pillar from New York with a lot of interest. Everyone on the ground has worked exceptionally hard to get to where we are today and I am excited to be part of this growing and successful business."