Franks takes up the role on 1 May after spending the past seven years at the publishing group. Foakes plans are still unknown but he is believed to be pursuing a number of personal interests. He resigned two months ago (PrintWeek, 22 February).

Franks started his career at the National Magazine Company. His first magazine role was with House Beautiful before moving to production when that title moved from quarterly to monthly publication.

After 18 months in that position he became production controller at She for nine months, then spent three years as production controller for Cosmopolitan before joining Emap.

At Emap, Franks started as production manager for the groups consumer magazines division, based in Peterborough, where he ran the paper department and became involved with print buying and pre-press. After two years he was appointed UK print buyer for consumer magazines. Three years later he became overall UK print buyer, as Emaps foreign acquisitions pushed Foakes into a more global role.

In his new role Franks will continue to look after Emaps UK print buying. He is also planning a complete top-to-toe internal review of Emaps production processes.

Franks, who said his new role was the job Ive wanted since Ive been at Emap, paid tribute to Foakes 10-year spell with the group. Ive been very fortunate working with David. I learned a lot from him and hes going to be missed because he has been a very good boss and a good role model.

Story by Gordon Carson