Leadership Transition at AECI
JSE-listed chemicals group AECI has undergone a significant leadership change, with chief executive officer Holger Riemensperger stepping down for personal and family-related reasons, according to company reports. The board has appointed AECI Chemicals executive vice president Dean Murray as interim group CEO, effective October 15.
Riemensperger’s Tenure and Achievements
Sources indicate that during Riemensperger’s leadership, the company achieved notable strategic successes. According to the report, his tenure saw marked progress in portfolio simplification, operational efficiency improvements, and both cost savings and debt reduction initiatives. Analysts suggest these efforts contributed to increased earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation throughout his period of leadership.
The company reportedly achieved a strong 132% increase in headline earnings per share in the first half of 2025, along with the resumption of interim dividend payments. AECI chairperson Philisiwe Sibiya commented that Riemensperger’s impact and commitment to the company “often came at great personal sacrifice,” according to the official statement.
New Interim Leadership
Dean Murray, described in reports as a highly seasoned executive with nearly two decades of leadership experience within AECI, has taken the interim CEO role. Sources indicate Murray has comprehensive knowledge of all aspects of AECI and the broader chemical industry. The appointment comes as the company maintains its strategic focus despite the leadership change.
Sibiya further stated that Murray is supported by a strong executive team and will continue delivering the company’s strategy of portfolio optimisation, fostering a winning culture, unlocking internal value, and pursuing responsible international expansion, according to the company announcement.
CEO Search Process Initiated
The AECI board’s nominations committee has reportedly begun the process of identifying a permanent CEO, supported by a leading executive search firm. Sources indicate the search will consider both internal and external candidates, with the board committed to finding a leader who can fully deliver on the company’s strategy.
Analysts suggest the board is seeking a permanent CEO who can capitalize on the company’s best-in-class capabilities and assets while continuing to drive a culture that delivers improved performance, growth, and shareholder returns, according to the company’s statements.
Market Reaction and Industry Context
The leadership transition announcement coincided with market movement, as the group’s share price on the JSE fell by more than 9% on the afternoon of October 15. This development occurs amid broader industry shifts and technological advancements, including emerging tools like the Google Flow AI video creator that are transforming content creation across sectors.
The chemicals industry continues to evolve alongside infrastructure developments, such as the Aligned Data Centers’ $40 billion acquisition that highlights growing AI infrastructure investments. Meanwhile, regulatory landscapes are shifting, as evidenced by the MIT grads’ crypto trial that exposes evolving compliance challenges in financial technologies.
Looking Forward
While the appointment shares a name with Dean Murray the basketball professional, sources confirm this is coincidental, with the interim CEO having established his career entirely within the chemical industry. The company maintains its strategic direction during this transition period, with the board emphasizing continuity in executing its established business objectives.
