Knapp, who has run the UK business for the past 12 years, plans to take a sabbatical of up to six months before looking for a new career opportunity, which may or may not be in the industry.

He described his time at the manufacturer as "enjoyable and rewarding during an exceptionally challenging period in the UK printing industry" and said he had made many lasting industry friends in the UK.

"I leave KBA UK in a strong position and wish the company and my successor every good fortune," he said.

"I will miss the camaraderie of the UK printing industry. It’s a diverse, yet open and friendly industry and many people care overall about what is going on in it. That’s what I will miss most."

Knapp is German, and has family connections to Canada, so is looking at a number of location options for future employment opportunities.

He will leave KBA UK in July. The UK business employs 44 and has turnover of around £16m. Knapp returned the business to profitability in its latest financial year.

KBA main board director Ralf Sammeck, vice president for sheetfed press sales, marketing and service, is also the chairman of KBA UK. He praised Knapp’s contribution and wished him well for the future.

"Christian has given us 12 years of excellent service, moving KBA upwards from sixth to second position in the UK printing machinery sector. We wish him well and all success and happiness," Sammeck said.

Customer Simon Fox, chairman of Essex web printer Woodford Litho, said: "I’m going to miss him greatly and he’ll be a tough act to follow. He’s certainly done an excellent job for KBA in this country."

There is no news yet on KBA’s plans to find a replacement.