James Lewis becomes UK CIO at Mercer

Mercer has named James Lewis as its new Chief Investment Officer in the UK. Lewis takes on the role, having joined the firm in 2010.

With more than two decades of consulting experience, Lewis was previously a Consulting Actuary in pensions and investment with Buck. After more than eight years there, he joined Mercer’s London office as a Senior Investment Consultant.

Over the following decade, Lewis rose to the rank of Head of Investment Strategy – a role which saw him lead the design and implementation of investment strategies for fiduciary management clients. His new role sees him assume responsibility for the leadership and oversight of Mercer’s investment solutions and investment strategy for Mercer’s investment propositions in the UK market. He will also sit on the UK Investment and the European and AMEA CIO Leadership teams.

Commenting on his appointment, Lewis noted, “Recent market events have emphasised the importance of robust governance and effective implementation frameworks to respond effectively to investment opportunities and market challenges. We have a hugely talented investment team dedicated to providing solutions and advice to improve investment outcomes for our clients. I look forward to leading our dynamic team as Chief Investment Officer and continuing to deliver the best of our global investment capabilities to our clients in the UK."

Mercer’s more-than 25,000 employees are based in 43 countries and the firm operates in 130 countries. It’s UK investment consultancy services give clients specific guidance at every stage of investment decision-making, risk management and monitoring. The wing has more than 400 clients, with combined assets totalling over £648 billion, while it has additional clients where Mercer acts as a fiduciary manager.

Late in 2022, Mercer also strengthened this aspect of business, by appointing a new lead for its investments and retirement practice in the UK. Phil Parkinson joined Mercer’s UK leadership team and will oversee Mercer UK’s investments and retirement business strategy, as well as other growing segments such as financial institutions and endowments and foundations.