The publishing giant announced in July that Middleton would leave the company at the end of this month, to be replaced by John Brewis who takes on the role of managing director for Trinity Mirror Printing.

An announcement was made at De La Rue yesterday afternoon that Middleton would join the company as managing director supply chain from 17 October.

De La Rue did not wish to comment on the appointment, but PrintWeek understands that his role will be to bring together the company's array of manufacturing plants under one management structure.

Middleton said: "This is an exciting move for me. De La Rue is a good company – I am excited to be a part of it."