Mercer announced new leadership appointments to strengthen its M&A consulting capabilities in Canada.

Doug Johnson, partner, was appointed the Canadian M&A leader. Prior to assuming this position, Johnson ran one of Mercer’s specialist Canadian Retirement businesses that included leadership of numerous significant corporate transactions. Earlier in his career he was a senior M&A engagement manager for Mercer’s North American Private Equity clients. He will remain based in Toronto. Bart Hermans, also a Mercer partner and experienced global and Canadian M&A Consultant, will continue to be responsible for the Corporate M&A market including the energy sector.

“We are pleased to announce this new role for Doug, one of our most senior and experienced M&A Consultants,” said Mercer’s Ted Singeris, senior partner and Canada Market Leader. “Doug has an exceptional track record in advising clients how to best ensure successful outcomes in M&A transactions. In fact, he has worked on more than 250 global transactions involving both corporate and private equity clients during his 24 years at Mercer.”

Luc Berneche, partner and client manager in Mercer’s Calgary office, will support Mercer’s M&A business in Western Canada, with a particular focus on mining, energy and corporateprivate equity clients. France Despatie, a principal in Mercer’s Montreal office, will support the M&A business in Eastern Canada, focusing on both corporate and private equity clients.

“With the increased demand for both our sell and buy-side advisory services, these additional resources under Doug’s leadership in Canada will allow us to grow our position as the pre-eminent advisor on human capital issues in transactions,” said Jeff Cox, Mercer senior partner, North America and Private Equity M&A Group Leader.