Walsh’s industry career has included roles at Hendy Banks City Print, Creo, and Heidelberg where he was a digital print specialist in the days of its NexPress joint venture with Kodak.

When Kodak took sole ownership of that venture in early 2004 Walsh joined the US-headquartered manufacturer as a digital print specialist.

He took on increasingly senior roles and moved on to its inkjet business, where he became VP of sales for digital press and inkjet products in EAMER six years ago.

Walsh told Printweek he had enjoyed “an incredible 21 years” at Kodak.

“I’ve had the privilege of working with some very talented people and developed lifelong friendships with amazing customers,” he said.

“It’s been an unforgettable journey, but the time has come for me to enjoy more time with my family in Cape Town and the Middle East, where I spent 12 very happy years.”

He quipped that he also had a crack in his garage wall in London that needed fixing, and with his Arsenal season tickets in hand “will be back and forth so not gone for good”.

“I thank Kodak for the opportunity they gave me. I wish the company, customers and my colleagues nothing but success for the future.”

He added: “After a little time out, I have too much passion for print, so I’ll be back!”

Walsh is currently on gardening leave and will officially step down on 31 May.

At the time of writing Kodak had not commented on whether he would be directly replaced, or not.