Taylor, whose sheetfed giant Fulmar was acquired by CPI for £44m last year, said he was delighted to take up the position.

“I feel that after more than 40 years in the printing industry, which has been kind enough to give me a very successful career, it would be unthinkable if I didn’t use my position and knowledge to give something back.”

Taylor took part in a PrintIT! ‘twinning’ programme with a local school last year and said the response of the students was both “encouraging and rewarding”.

PrintIT! chairman Martyn Elmy said: “Mike is living proof of the success the industry can bring. His experience and knowledge will be invaluable to the project.”