Grattan Kirk to step down while executive chairman David Sussman will assume the role of CEO JD Group, whose brands include Joshua Doore, Hi-Fi Corporation and Steinbuild, on Thursday reported a 3.4% rise in headline earnings per share for the six months ended December compared to the six months ended December 2011, while also unexpectedly announcing the resignation of CEO Grattan Kirk.The group said it was pleased to report the increased earnings in a "challenging consumer environment", and amid increased competition in the financial services industry. "Having achieved the significant goals that I set for myself at the start of my term as CEO in June 2008, this is an opportune time for me to move on. I want enough time to still pursue at least one further major career challenge", he said.Mr Kirk will continue to assist the group’s retail division with various other strategic initiatives before he leaves the employ of the group on June 30. Group executive chairman David Sussman woul...