South Africa’s AECI names Alan Dickson as new group CEO

South African chemicals and explosives group AECI has appointed Alan Dickson as its new Group Chief Executive Officer and executive director, selecting a long-time industrial executive to steer the company through its next phase of restructuring and growth. 

The appointment, effective July 1, 2026, follows a board-led selection process overseen by AECI’s nominations, governance and directors affairs committee.

Dickson will succeed interim CEO Dean Murray, who has led the company since October 2025 and will remain in place until June 30 to support a structured transition. 

The move comes as the JSE-listed group continues to refine its operational focus and improve performance across its portfolio.

Investors have been watching closely as AECI works to strengthen margins, simplify parts of its business and support more consistent earnings in a challenging industrial environment. 

Founded in 1896 and headquartered in Sandton, AECI has grown into one of South Africa’s major industrial groups.

It operates in 20 countries and maintains manufacturing sites across six continents, supplying mining chemicals, explosives and related products to customers in mining, agriculture and infrastructure sectors.

Experience shaped in South Africa’s industrial sector 

Dickson arrives at AECI with more than two decades of senior leadership experience across manufacturing, infrastructure and industrial technology sectors.

He spent 29 years at Reunert, one of South Africa’s established industrial groups, where he served as Group CEO from 2014 to 2026. 

During his tenure, he was known for steady capital allocation decisions and a focus on operational discipline across a diversified portfolio of businesses.

His leadership period at Reunert was marked by an emphasis on efficiency and long-term shareholder returns, rather than short-term expansion.

Board confidence and transition planning 

AECI Chairperson Philisiwe Sibiya said the board viewed Dickson as well placed to lead the company’s next chapter, citing his experience in managing complex industrial operations. 

“The board is delighted to appoint Alan as Group CEO of AECI. He brings a strong track record of disciplined execution, operational excellence and value creation in complex, listed industrial environments,” Sibiya said. 

Dickson said he was honored by the appointment and looked forward to working with AECI’s leadership team to build on the company’s long-standing industrial footprint and strategic priorities.

The board also acknowledged Murray’s role in providing stability during the interim period.