Homebase has poached Tesco executive Ewan McMahon to be its retail operations director as it continues with its turnaround effort. 

McMahon, previously chief operating officer at Tesco’s Turkish business, has taken up the role at the DIY retailer today. He replaces Graham Heald, who left Homebase in August following a shake-up by new managing director Echo Lu. 

Lu herself is a former Tesco executive and is seeking to transform the business amid tough market conditions for DIY retailers.

Homebase is currently the subject of takeover rumours, with French DIY group Leroy Merlin the latest firm reported to show an interest in the Home Retail-owned retailer.

McMahon, who started his career as a management trainee at Tesco, will report to Lu as part of its “leadership team”. McMahon has also led the Tesco Extra Format in the UK as operations director.

Lu said: “Throughout his career Ewan has demonstrated principled leadership, cultural adaptability, and a strong track record of delivering positive change through people in challenging environments.”