In a statement, the company said: "Gary Doman's employment with Manroland was terminated with immediate effect on Wednesday 28 October. In order to respect the rightful privacy of all parties the details remain confidential."

Doman had been with the company for 17 years. Manroland GB managing director Norman Revill declined to comment further, but said that he wished Doman well for the future and thanked him for his years of service.

As is the case with other press manufacturers, the company has witnessed a dramatic fall in new press orders during the downturn, and therefore said that it would not be recruiting a replacement immediately.

"If and when we start to get busy we will readdress the situation," Revill added.

Speaking to PrintWeek, Doman said he was exploring his options and hoped to remain in the wider printing industry: "I've enjoyed my years at Manroland – it's a great company with a great team. I wish them every success in what is an appalling market."