<p><span class="aa"><span>John Martin, chairman of Countryside, is to leave the business with immediate effect.</span></span></p> <p><span>Martin, who became chair of the partnerships-focused housebuilder in April 2021, also departs from his role as chair of the Nomination Committee. Douglas Hurt, senior independent director, has taken over both posts. Non-executive director Amanda Burton assumes Hurt’s role.</span></p> <p><span>Countryside gave no detail of Martin’s departure beyond the fact that he had informed the board of his resignation “with immediate effect”. This development comes as the business is undertaking the process of </span><a href="http://www.house-builder.co.uk/news/countryside-sale">putting itself up for sale, following pressure from shareholders</a><span>.</span></p><p><span> </span><span>Hurt said: "We are sorry to see John Martin go and would like to thank John for his dedication, commitment and significant contribution to Countryside. We wish him all the best for the future."</span></p> <p><span>Martin commented: “I would like to thank all colleagues in Countryside who have contributed to making the company unique and to wish you all the greatest success going forward."</span></p><p><span class="aa"><span>The business added in its statement that there was no change to its previous </span></span><span>financial guidance for adjusted operating profit for its full year ending September 30 2022.</span><span class="aa"></span></p> <p><span class="aa"><span>The company has experienced upheaval in recent times, with <a href="http://www.house-builder.co.uk/news/countyside-ceo-leaves-business">ceo …