Mills had assumed responsibility for the web offset operation after former managing director William Mills left at the end of 2001. He had also been involved with negotiations with the GPMU over restructuring at the plant.

His departure has come as a huge surprise. Mills was the first non-family member to lead the 70m group and brought fresh thinking to the company. However, some aspects of his change programme are believed to have unsettled the Jarrold family.

In a statement, Charles Jarrold said: "It is our firm intention to develop further the current business strategy and modernisation programme established under the leadership of Rob Mills."

Former managing director William Mills said: "This is good news for Jarrold Print. Its a clear signal of the Jarrold family reaffirming its fundamental belief in printing."