Clark (pictured) is the second managing director to quit the post, his appointment followed the resignation of Andrew Jones who quit the post after just eight weeks in October 2004.

Clark joined the 110m superplant in April, at which time he described the job as "a heady mix of opportunity and challenge". Previously he was managing director of Poole-based web printer Southernprint.

The Sheffield post was Clark's second high-profile role within Polestar. Prior to his Southernprint role he was managing director of the group's Varnicoat site.

"The direction and management of this plant is a key role within the group, and we were delighted to attract someone of Clark's calibre and experience, " said Polestar chief executive Barry Hibbert. "However, I appreciate that the role has not completely met his aspirations. Clark has overseen the commissioning of the first equipment, which has gone gone extremely well, but now wishes to explore other career options."

Customer service director David Yendole has been appointed acting managing director of the Sheffield site.