Dobbies chief executive James Barnes has left the Tesco-owned chain after 23 years, joined by finance director Sharon Brown.
Dobbies confirmed to DIY Week that both left the business last week. Commercial director Katherine Poulter has reportedly taken the helm at the 32-store chain on a temporary basis.

A spokesperson said: "James Barnes and Sharon Brown have left Dobbies. James has led Dobbies for 23 years and leaves the business in good shape thanks to his long experience on the board. We have a good platform to bring the brand to more customers, working across all channels and with the core Tesco business.

"We will announce their successors in due course."

Retail Week quotes a source 'close to Dobbies' as saying the move was "Tesco's decision" but "the departures were amicable."

Dobbies' chairman remains Tesco managing director for developing business Jill Easterbrook.

Mr Barnes joined Dobbies as development director back in 1989 and saw the business through its takeover by Tesco in 2007. According to reports, he and Ms Brown left the business without jobs to go to, and work is already underway to replace them.