He will retain his involvement as a non-executive director and as chairman of its Hungarian operation.
Ashfield's departure was first mooted in PrintWeek 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 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."
Chief executive Barry Hibbert said: "The role John has played in the group's success has been second to none. He has played an integral part in winning long-term contracts with a number of leading magazine and newspaper publishers."
Ashfield to leave after exec rejig at Polestar
Polestar has confirmed that John Ashfield (pictured) is to stand down from his role as group sales and marketing director from the start of next year.
