Nampak has announced the appointment of Riaan Heyl as its new CEO, effective February 2026, after a period of unexpected leadership changes and ongoing business transformation efforts.
The appointment comes after a turbulent succession process at the packaging group.
Phil Roux, who has led Nampak since 2022 and has overseen restructuring, debt reduction and operational streamlining, had planned to retire at end-September.
He was to be succeeded by Andrew Hood, then COO and head of the diversified portfolio, from October.
But Hood resigned earlier this month, citing family reasons, leaving the company without a designated successor. Nampak’s board extended Roux’s tenure beyond his planned retirement to provide continuity while a permanent replacement was sought.
Roux’s time in charge saw Nampak cut debt, improve margins and dispose of assets, including the sale of Bevcan Nigeria. The group also narrowed its portfolio and invested in selective capacity expansion projects as part of its turnaround strategy.
Heyl, a chartered accountant, has more than 20 years’ experience in the fast-moving consumer goods sector. He was most recently CEO of PepsiCo SA, where he led the integration of Pioneer Foods after its 2020 takeover by the US food and beverage group. He previously worked alongside Roux at Pioneer.
His appointment is intended to bring stability to Nampak as it continues its financial and operational recovery after several years of restructuring and leadership uncertainty.
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