He will retain his involvement as a non-executive director and as chairman of its Hungarian operation.
Ashfield's departure was first mooted last week as part of the group's senior management restructure, which included Mike Young's appointment as managing director of Polestar Sheffield.
"It is a logical time for me to leave," said Ashfield (pictured), who was part of the team that formed Polestar in 1998. "The group is now streamlined and we have excellent sales directors and sales teams in place."
"The role John has played in the group's success has been second to none," said chief executive Barry Hibbert. "He has played an integral part in winning long-term contracts with a number of leading magazine and newspaper publishers."
Have your say in the Printweek Poll
Related stories
Latest comments
"I have worked in quite a few print sectors, including Walstead in the past. It is all tough, but most will not be surprised that the packaging sector is still growing. However, the service in the..."
""longer run litho work had “now returned to the Far East”?
Is this happening a lot?"
"Thanks Jo, look forward to reading it in due course. Administrators generally argue that they need to act with lightning speed in order to protect the business/jobs, thereby overlooking the fact that..."
Up next...
Revenue up to £3.2m, profits quadupled
Footprint picks up pace of acquisition strategy with Swindon’s C3
Controversy emerges over relationship with potential suitor
National World shares soar on takeover approach
24/7 access for customers
Bakergoodchild launches new SaaS platform
Strategic move for global growth