Sappi bids Van As farewell as CEO

Van As took on the role of Executive Chairman at the end of 2002, with Jonathan Lesley as his successor. He joined the company in 1977 as Managing Director of Sappi Kraft. A year later he was offered the position of Group Managing Director and CEO of Sappi.

The function, hosted by events company O'MAGE Limited, shed light on the contribution van As has made to Sappi, taking it from a small South African company to a leading global player. In a relaxed but formal atmosphere, a select group of guests were wined and dined whilst enjoying a tributary video. The video marked the influence of a great leader and major developments that took place during van As' time as CEO of Sappi.

At the event van As said that Sappi's success was due to the influence of many people. "It has been done by a team, people who have worked together and inspired each other," he said. "We had a wonderful journey." Concluding that "being a leader will always be Sappi's role", he emphasized that his successor has the ability to expand the company and take it from strength to strength.

Changes that took place during van As' role as CEO