He has 12 years experience on the print production side at Gruner+Jahr and NatMags and was the best candidate for us, said Southernprint managing director Stephen Clark. I didnt want to perpetuate the situation where printers just steal everyone elses people so Im pleased to have broken that cycle too. He obviously knows the kit and we see great advantages perhaps it ought to happen more often.

Borton said he was thrilled and delighted to be offered the opportunity.

NatMags manufacturing director Alice Beattie [formerly Symonds] added: While this is sad for us its a wonderful opportunity for Ross. Hes a good guy with a unique combination of skills and Im sure hell do really well for them.

Borton is set to take up his new role in March, and Beattie has begun the search for a replacement.