Chesterman, previously managing director of Fespa Events, and Timson, sales and marketing director, are leaving the company to join the management team of an undisclosed "non-competitive" organisation.

As a result, Fespa has appointed Neil Felton, most recently executive director for exhibitions at William Reed Business Media, to the role of managing director of exhibitions and events from 11 May. He reports to Fespa chief executive Nigel Steffens.

Felton is charged with directing the company's international portfolio of exhibitions that comprise Fespa 2013 in London, Fespa Digital 2012 in Barcelona, Fespa Asia 2011 in Singapore, Fespa Mexico, 2011, 2012 in Mexico City and Fespa Americas 2012 in Miami.

He said: "Fespa growth in the last six years has been phenomenal, yet in several regions and market segments this is only the tip of the iceberg.  

"Undoubtedly there are still untold opportunities for Fespa to bring together print service providers and their suppliers, and to create environments where the community can share its collective technical and commercial knowledge and expertise."

Chesterman and Timson announce their departures with Fespa Digital 2011 already sold out with 370 exhibitors already lined up for the Hamburg show, which takes place on 24-27 May.