The Goldman Sachs Group, a global investment banking, securities and investment management firm, has elected M. Michele Burns as an independent director. She will join the firm's audit; risk; compensation; and corporate governance and nominating committees.

Burns was chairman and chief executive officer of Mercer, a subsidiary of Marsh & McLennan Companies, from September 2006 until early October. She recently was selected to plan and design a new Retirement Policy Center sponsored by Marsh & McLennan Companies. The Center will focus on retirement public policy issues. Once established, she will serve as the Center's executive director.

Prior to joining Mercer, Burns served as the chief financial officer of several public companies, including Marsh & McLennan Companies; Mirant Corporation; and Delta Air Lines. She began her career at Arthur Andersen, holding various positions including senior partner and leader of the Southern Regional Tax Practice.

Burns' election expands the Goldman's board to 12 directors, 10 of whom are independent directors.