Andrew Jones joined the group in August from the automotive industry, and was selected for his knowledge of just-in-time supply techniques and disciplines, which form a key part of the strategy for success at the Sheffield superplant.

His resignation was announced on Tuesday (19 October). It transpired that after an intensive induction period, including attending the recent European Rotogravure Association conference in Berlin, Jones realised that the printing industry was not for him.

"He simply decided that printing is just so different to what he's used to, and he's opted to do something more familiar instead," said group operations director Mike Bartlett. "It's a bit of a blow, and we are mulling our options right now regarding a replacement. We want to have someone in place as soon as possible."

Candidates from outside the industry will still be considered for the role.

Polestar group human resources director Catherine Hearn said: "We respect his decision and think it is better that we have someone who is fully engaged with the challenge. I think it is easy to underestimate how difficult it is to join the industry, yet at the same time we need fresh ideas and new talent." The giant Sheffield facility is scheduled for completion in December.

Mike Young continues to head the project, and former Greaves, Varnicoat and Purnell boss Richard Grey is working with him on a consultancy basis. "He knows a lot about gravure, but we will also appoint a full-time gravure print expert imminently," said Young. "This is a big plant and it requires a different managerial skillset we want some new blood."

Varnicoat managing director David Yendole has been appointed as customer service and planning director for Sheffield, while his former role has been filled by Iain Gibson, who joins from Mars.

Story by Jo Francis