GLOBAL – Marsh & McLennan, the parent company of Mercer and Putnam, has named a new chief financial officer to take over from Sandra Wijnberg.

Michele Burns will take over from Wijnberg by the end of March next year. Wijnberg said she would resign about a year ago.

MMC said Burns, 47, would report to president and chief executive Michael Cherkasky. She was formerly CFO at energy firm Mirant, MMC said. She has held roles at Delta Air Lines and Arthur Andersen.

“Michele has distinguished herself through her financial leadership, management track record, and impressive professional accomplishments,” Cherkasky said.

“Her experience will be invaluable as MMC implements its 'one company' strategy of becoming the world's leading global advice and solutions firm.”

Burns sits on the board at Wal-Mart Stores, Cisco Systems and the Ivan Allen Co. She is also treasurer and a founding member of the board of directors of the Elton John AIDS Foundation.