Usher, who stepped into his role this month, succeeds Friedheim International chief executive Peter Morris who has completed his two-year term in the position.  

Usher said his main priority would be to increase the UK print industry’s communication with government and other trade bodies.

He said that the recent formation of the Graphic Print & Media Alliance (GPMA), announced at Fespa, would provide a major boost to lobbying efforts. 

He added: "Peter deserves a lot of credit for his role in bringing together the seven trade associations that form the GPMA.

"The UK print, media and graphic arts industry now has the opportunity to find a stronger, louder collective voice and appeal successfully for the support we deserve as the country’s sixth largest industry.  I shall be working hard with the other GPMA members to bring other trade bodies on board."

Usher said that he would also be focusing on supporting Ipex and ensuring that it was a success in 2014.
 
"It’s important for the UK printing industry that Ipex continues to be successful, and I expect the new venue and a host of new features for Ipex 2014 to cement its position as a significant international exhibition.

"We shall do all we can to support the organisers by encouraging all Picon members to exhibit." 

Usher added that the body would look to increase its membership and focus particularly on digital and cross-media representatives.

Handing over to Usher, outgoing chair Peter Morris said: "Picon is in excellent hands with Bob as chairman for the next two years. The depth of industry experience he brings to the role, particularly from the digital side, will benefit members considerably as the implications for digital technology within the industry become clearer. 

Usher joined the printing industry in 1966 starting as a technician with Rotaprint, then joining AM Multigraphics, followed by Itek Graphic Products.

He founded Apex Reprographics in 1989 which became Apex Digital Graphics in 1995.