Alan Clarke has abruptly stepped down as chairman of listed carpet maker Cavalier Corp. and will also retire as a director following the company's annual meeting later this year. Cavalier director George Adams has been appointed new chairman effective immediately. To fill other vacancies, Cavalier said, John Rae will chair the risk and audit Committee and Dianne Williams will chair the remuneration committee. Clarke was appointed to the board of Cavalier to assist with the company's turnaround strategy.