Former B&Q director John Colley has been appointed chief executive officer of Praxis, having spent the last few years as chief commercial officer of parent group Maxeda.
Tony DeNunzio will become executive chairman of Maxeda, having been involved in the company for eight years. He started when the group was struggling and successfully set up a new strategy, delivering significantly improved results at several Maxeda companies. According to the firm, he will now spend more time with the Maxeda DIY Group business.

Of Mr Colley's appointment, Mr DeNunzio said: "John created an organisation that has changed our far east sourcing and our new product development. John is one of the strongest commercial people in the business and has a passion for success. He will bring real energy and focus to driving the Praxis business."

Mr Colley recently pulled out of speaking at a BHETA forum scheduled for April 4. He was due to give an interactive session with delegates at the event.

The management shakeup at the Maxeda group has stemmed from the need to "simplify our structures, shorten decision making, lower our cost and improve the execution of our plans. With these goals in mind we are making some important organisational changes," according to Mr DeNunzio.

As part of the reshuffling, group ceo George Adams will now become strategic advisor. Said Mr DeNunzio: "With the simplication of the central structures and the integration into the formats, George's central role will be reduced... I want to thank George for his contribution to the company and am glad we still benefit from his expertise in the upcoming period."