Heiton Holdings, the Atlantic Homecare DIY group, is seeking a group operations director to manage its operations in Ireland. He will report to Mr Leo Martin, group chief executive designate.

The move is in line with the group's strategic review of its management structures announced by chairman Mr Stephen O'Connor earlier this year. The group's main Irish rival, Grafton, has been increasing its stake in Heiton and now has a 9.48 per cent share-holding. Grafton has refused to comment on whether it is planning to bid for Heiton.

However, the new appointment being sought is being viewed as business as usual at Heiton which is not influenced by the Grafton moves. Grafton has been building up its stake since last March, when it announced it had a 4.9 per cent stake.

Mr Martin will take over from Mr Richard Hewat who is due to retire early in 2000 when he will be 60.