NATION

John E. O’Toole, chairman of Foote, Cone & Belding Communications--the eighth-largest U.S. advertising agency--plans to retire at the end of the year. O’Toole, 56, said he wants to pursue “several enticing projects,” including opening a consulting firm.

Norman W. Brown, president and chief executive, will take on the additional duties and responsibilities of chairman, the company said.