Matthews, who was previously managing director of Punch Graphix UK, returns to Heidelberg where he headed up the sales of the Nexpress prior to the sale of Heidelberg's 50% stake to Kodak in 2004.

Heidelberg has previously said that the unveiling of its digital print partner would "change the industry" and Matthews' arrival indicates further preparation of that move.

Matthews said: "It is too early yet to talk about any new digital partnership but Heidelberg has announced that it will be re-entering the digital printing market in the spring.

"I am here to do the groundwork so that we can have everything in place in time for that launch."

George Clarke, managing director at Heidelberg, said Matthews' return was a positive step for the company.

"I’ve said before that I welcome the day when we will be back in digital because the market will know that they have a trusted partner who will give them honest, informed and objective advice on litho and digital printing options," he added.