By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Packaging group Nampak has announced the appointment of Riaan Heyl as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective February 2026.
The group was thrown into disarray after the company’s CEO-designate, Andrew Hood, tendered his resignation over personal reasons.
Hood, who was COO and would have replaced Phil Roux on 1 October, but resigned and the company extended Roux’s term as CEO until a suitable successor was found.
In an announcement today, the board of Nampak said, it is confident Heyl will advance the current business transformation process in a sustainable manner.
He has held senior positions across the industry, most recently as PepsiCo South Africa CEO, which acquired Pioneer Foods in 2020. Heyl played a pivotal role in PepsiCo’s leadership and business integration process, following this corporate activity.
He also worked alongside Roux during Roux’s five-year tenure as CEO at Pioneer Foods, which bodes well for a successful transition, Nampak board said.
Heyl is a chartered accountant by profession. He has had a rewarding career that included senior leadership roles within finance and general management.