Snoad began his print career aged 15 at Headley Brothers. He subsequently spent 24 years at Geerings before moving to Inglis Allen and then Elements Group.

He joined Dover-based Buckland 15 years ago as business development manager, and then rose to become managing director of the business.

“I’ve seen letterpress to litho, and litho to digital, as well as three recessions,” Snoad said. “I’m going to miss the industry, my colleagues and customers.”

Buckland employs 25 staff and has turnover of around £1.7m. Within the past five years it has reinvented itself to become a provider of print, digital and cross-media marketing services. “25% of the business is now online,” Snoad added.

Tony Hodgson, director at PODi Europe, said: “I have known Kevin since Buckland Press became a PODi member in 2010. Since then he has successfully transformed the company into Buckland Media Group, a progressive and dynamic marketing services provider.

“I have found Kevin an inspiration to work with - always ready to grasp and try out new ideas and keen to share his knowledge and experience with others. He will leave Buckland well equipped for the future. I wish him a great future too in his well-earned retirement after a life-long career in print.”

The firm is also a BPIF member, and Bob Davies, the federation’s South East Regional Director, praised Snoad for his breadth of experience and knowledge.

He said: “Kevin has never been afraid to look at, tackle and implement the numerous changes the industry has faced over his time in the industry. Certainly he has been pivotal in the transformation of Buckland into the print and media business it is today.”

Snoad said his retirement plans included spending a lot more time with his family, and quipped: “and the golf clubs are coming out of the loft after 10 years.”

He will not be directly replaced. Buckland chief executive and owner Jeremy Weaver, who has been heavily involved in developing the firm’s new strategy in recent years, will take on some of Snoad’s responsibilities, as will other senior members of the management team at the business.