Gough, who is also outgoing president of the NAPM, has left to "pursue other business opportunities".

Because of his departure he is unable to continue as NAPM president either and is expected to depart at the same time.

He took over at Robert Horne in July last year as part of a shake-up throughout the PaperlinX Group. Previously he was managing director or PaperCo.

According to PaperlinX the position will be advertised shortly.

PaperlinX announced this week that it had gone from a profit last year to a £415.5m loss in 2009.

Dave Allen, PaperlinX regional president for the UK, said: "Throughout his 29 years within the paper industry Alistair has held various senior positions within both Robert Horne and The Paper Company.  During his time with us he has been part of significant change programmes within the Robert Horne business as well as developing the Sign and Display and Packaging businesses.

"Most recently, he has made a positive contribution to the development of PaperlinX strategy for developing Packaging sales across Europe. We thank Alistair for his contribution and wish him every possible success in the future."

Gough added: "I have been privileged to work for and lead two great companies during my career so far, but the time has come for me to pursue a different direction than PaperlinX and I have decided to explore opportunities elsewhere.

"I would like to thank all my colleagues for their support and contribution to the many significant achievements we have enjoyed and wish them every success in the future."

Tim Bowler, NAPM director, said: "We are losing an excellent president. He has been a great help to me. He has been a major part of pushing the Two Sides campaign and he has steered the NAPM through difficult times. I will miss him personally."