Clicks executive director and COO Keith Warburton resigns

Keith Warburton, outgoing Clicks COO

Image: Clicks Group

Warburton will be replaced by Vikesh Ramsunder‚ current MD at UPD‚ from 1 April.

UPD is a full-range pharmaceutical wholesaler and provides the distribution capability for the Clicks Group's integrated healthcare strategy.

Vikash Singh‚ the current UPD head of operations and distribution‚ will succeed Ramsunder as the MD of UPD.

Clicks CEO David Kneale said Warburton had achieved the objectives of repositioning the Clicks brand for growth by improving the value offering‚ expanding the stores and pharmacy footprint‚ improving the contribution of the private label‚ growing customer loyalty and stemming the labour turnover in its pharmacies.

"Keith's strong financial acumen and in-depth knowledge of the group enabled him to focus on further improving our business processes and reducing the brand's cost base.

"I wish to acknowledge Keith's contribution to the group both in his current position and as the former chief financial offer of the group and we wish him well for the future‚" Kneale said.

Clicks said Warburton and Ramsunder would work together closely over the next two months to ensure a smooth transition.

"These internal promotions reflect the quality of the group's talent and succession planning process‚" said the company.

Source: BDpro via I-Net Bridge