Agfa president and chief executive Klaus Seeger has left the firm over disagreements with the board of directors over the direction of the company.


"There was a major difference in the strategic future between him and the board," said media relations spokesman Johan Jacobs.


"Agfa believes in a synergy between divisions. Dr Seeger took the view that the units should operate autonomously," he added.


Seeger will be replaced by deputy chief executive Ludo Verhoeven at the next board meeting on 18 June.


Verhoeven is the board spokesman for the graphic systems and technical imaging business units, the NAFTA region and several central services, including R&D and manufacturing.


The differences between Seeger and the board emerged during Agfas talks with Schroder Ventures over the sale of its consumer imaging division. Agfa finally decided not to sell.


"The profitability of all Agfa activities, including consumer imaging has improved significantly over the past few years as a result of restructuring measures," said Verhoeven.


"As talks progressed, it became impossible to reach agreement," said Jacobs.


One sticking point was the transfer of the Agfa brand and logo.


It has also been proposed that Dr Pol Bamelis be appointed as a new non-executive director at the next board meeting.


Agfas share price fell 7.7% to a low of E12 on the news.


Story by Barney Cox