Wakeford served as chief executive officer of Bidvest Travel and Aviation for the past three years. Prior to joining Bidvest, he spent nine years in the Southern Sun Hotel group and before that, was group financial manager at SA Breweries.
Wakeford, who is 53 years of age, is a CA (SA) and was educated at the University of Cape Town after which he served articles at Arthur Young. Wakeford succeeds Dr Jonathan Louw, who resigned as CEO of Adcock Ingram on 1 April 2014.
"The Board decided that strong business skills are what is required to lead Adcock Ingram's recovery and growth into the future. Kevin's broad experience in a number of fields and his entrepreneurial spirit, stand him in good stead to lead the company," said Brian Joffe, chairman of Adcock Ingram. "The Adcock Ingram Board has the greatest confidence in Kevin's abilities.
Wakeford will be supported by Andy Hall, who will continue as deputy CEO and financial director.
Adcock Ingram, listed on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, is a leading South African pharmaceutical company which manufactures, markets and distributes a wide range of healthcare products. The company is a leading supplier to both the private and public sectors of the market.
