Wolseley man Steve Ashmore has been promoted to the role of UK managing director, with effect from May 10.
Since 2008, Ashmore has been managing director of Wolseley's UK Heavyside businesses of Build Center, Drain Center, Brandon Hire and Encon.

Between 2007 and 2008, Ashmore was managing director of the UK Lightside businesses of Plumb Center, Parts Center, Unifix and BCG. Ashmore joined Wolseley in October 2005.

Before he worked for Wolseley, he spent more than 11 years with Exel, the supply chain and third party logistics provider, in various leadership positions.

Ashmore reports to Ian Meakins, Wolseley plc chief executive. In the short term, Ashmore will continue managing the UK Heavyside operations until a successor is appointed.

Ian Meakins, Wolseley plc chief executive, said:'Wolseley is pleased to announce that, following an extensive search of both internal and external candidates, Steve Ashmore has been appointed. His track record on improvement of business performance, which most recently includes improving the performance of the Heavyside division, is impressive.'