Property trust GPT Group has appointed executive search firm Heidrick and Struggles to find a replacement for CEO Nic Lyons.

Former Goodman Group Asia-Pacific chief executive David van Anholt and David Blight, the new chief executive of Melbourne fund manager APN Property Group, have been suggested as possible replacements, according to industry sources.

van Anholt, who took six months sabbatical leave from Goodman in August but resigned last month, had held some early discussions, the sources said.

Blight, previously based in the Hague as ING Real Estate's former investment management vice-chairman and chief executive only took the reins at APN in November and has taken a 10% equity stake in the management company.

The Australian