Thomas was previously with Goldcrest (Adhesive) Products for eight years as general manager.

To ensure a smooth changeover takes place, Slade, who has been with Oxuniprint for 15 years and Oxford University Press for a total of 43 years, will remain with the company until Christmas.

Thomas said his remit will be to develop and grow sales, following the company's successful move into CTP technology last year.

The unit has two and five colour Heidelberg B2 presses, and operates an Agfa Apogee pre-press front-end.

As part of his workload, Thomas will also be seeking to appoint a sales and marketing manager to the company, whom he said will have to be "totally customer focused".

This appointment will be handled by specialist print recruitment agency, XL Recruitment.

"I'm looking forward to the challenge, and feel we have motivated and focussed team to grow the business," he said.

Oxuniprint is the commercial arm of Oxford University Press, and was set up in 1989. It provides both printing and finishing services to commercial and university customers.

Story by Andy Scott