Steven Round in shock exit from Robert Dyas

According to the retailer, the decision, which was made on January 28, came as "the business is entering a period of considerable re-growth and it was felt that the business needs a CEO with a different skill set".

Non-executive chairman Geoff Brady will temporarily assume the role of executive chairman while the company looks for a new ceo.

A statement from Robert Dyas said: "The board would like to thank Steven for his work over the last three years, stabilising the business in a difficult economic climate, improving many aspects of company business processes and developing the Robert Dyas 'new format' stores which continue to show promising results. The board wishes Stephen the very best for the future."

Robert Dyas opened its 100th store in November. Speaking to DIY Week at the time, Mr Round said he was pleased with the results of the company's ongoing refurbishment programme and was confident about its future.

The former Kingfisher and MFI director was appointed ceo of Robert Dyas in April 2008. He led a management buy-out of the company a year later. It is not known what he plans to do next.

Source : DIYweek.net