Louw van Reenen steps down to focus on family

13 September 2023: Beefmaster Group has officially appointed Gert Blignaut as its incoming CEO, effective from 1st October 2023. Blignaut will assume the role previously held by Louw van Reenen, who, after 16 years of dedicated service as CEO, has chosen to step down to prioritise his family. However, Van Reenen will continue to play a pivotal role within the organisation as he takes on the position of Executive Chairman of the Beefmaster Group Board, also effective from 1st October 2023.

Roelie van Reenen, the Supply Chain Executive at Beefmaster Group, underscores that this appointment is a result of a carefully planned succession strategy. This strategy has been a central focus of the current leadership team over the past 18 months, aimed at ensuring a seamless and efficient transition in leadership.

“Ever since my brother, Louw, expressed his desire to become more involved in the daily affairs of his children,” van Reenen explains, “it was always evident that Gert was the ideal choice for this role, given his long-standing association with the Beefmaster family spanning over two decades.”

He further highlights that Blignaut commands deep respect among his peers and colleagues. His extensive institutional knowledge is attributed to his role as the Chief Operating Officer of the company, a position he has held since 2017. Blignaut began his journey with Beefmaster Group in 2000 after completing his BSc Honours in Agriculture and Animal Feeding from the University of the Free State. He steadily climbed the ranks, assuming the role of Feedlot Manager in 2004, and subsequently, General Manager in 2006.

Van Reenen underscores that Blignaut’s appointment serves as a prime example of Beefmaster Group’s unwavering dedication to its core family values. “At Beefmaster, we consider every individual who has contributed to shaping the company as an indispensable member of our extended family,” van Reenen states. “Gert has consistently proven his value as an executive and board member, and we eagerly anticipate the impact he will make as a leader within our broader group.”

He goes on to highlight the remarkable tenure of Louw van Reenen as CEO, marked by outstanding achievements and significant contributions to Beefmaster Group’s success. Under his guidance, the company has reached significant milestones, expanded its market presence, and maintained its reputation as an industry leader.

“Louw’s decision to step aside reflects his unwavering commitment to family values and priorities, and the entire Beefmaster family extends its heartfelt gratitude for his years of dedication and service,” says Roelie van Reenen. “He has adeptly navigated us through various crises, including the challenges posed by COVID-19 and Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD), all while maintaining his characteristic composure and resolute approach. Additionally, he has played a pivotal role in collaborating with government entities to expand our beef export opportunities. As we move forward, we eagerly anticipate his continued contributions to the company’s growth narrative, albeit in a different role.”

We are thrilled by this momentous leadership transition within Beefmaster Group. The selection of Gert Blignaut as our incoming CEO underscores the careful succession planning of our current leadership team, and our commitment to both our extended family and loyal customers remains unwavering. As we venture into this promising new phase, Beefmaster Group continues to stand by its core values, guaranteeing a vibrant and resolute future!

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