Dickin, 62, is one of prints most experienced executives and his career includes spells at HunterPrint, RR Donnelley and BPC. He left BPC in 1995, and the following year was dragged out of premature retirement by Quebecor, where his role grew to a Europe-wide remit as executive vice president of operations.

Its been great fun and really interesting to work across Europe, and be involved in the different cultures and dynamics of the industry on an international basis, Dickin said. Ive been working with five very bright young men who run the various countries, and they keep me on my toes.

Dickin was described as a very, very good man manager and very loyal person by his former BPC colleague Chris Bramley. John also has an excellent all-round technical knowledge and is great at analysing and resolving problems.

Dickins retirement plans include trying to improve my golf handicap, making the garden more presentable and having some fun.

Story by Jo Francis