(MENAFN- AFP) Britain-based brewer SABMiller said on Wednesday that its chairman and former chief executive Graham Mackay has died following an illness.
South African national Mackay, 64, had stepped down as chief executive in April after undergoing surgery for a brain tumour.
"SABMiller plc sadly announces that chairman Graham Mackay died peacefully this morning, with his family at his side," the group said in a statement.
"The board has appointed acting chairman John Manser as chairman with immediate effect, and has appointed Guy Elliott as senior independent director in succession to John Manser."
Mackay had returned to his role as non-executive chairman in September, but requested a further leave of absence last month after a sudden deterioration in his condition.
Manser added that the group's former chief executive would be "deeply missed".
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Graham's wife and family," he said in the statement.
"Graham was one of the most inspirational and successful leaders in international business by any measure. Everyone in the SABMiller family has been blessed by his vision, his loyalty, and his friendship during his 35 years with the group. He will be deeply missed.
"The board has every confidence that under Alan Clark's leadership, we will continue to build on Graham's legacy, and fulfil his vision to make SABMiller the most admired company in the global beer industry."
Manser will defer his expected retirement date for one year to July 2015, while the group searches for a longer-term chairman.
SABMiller, which is listed in London and Johannesburg, produces well-known beer brands including Grolsch, Miller Lite, Peroni Nastro Azzuro and Pilsner Urquell.
Mackay was replaced as chief executive in April by chief operating officer Alan Clark.
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