Linzbach has been off work since the beginning of June, and Heidelberg said his recovery had been delayed. The nature of his illness has not been disclosed.

As a result, Kaliebe steps up and becomes deputy chairman of the management board until Linzbach’s return, and takes on his duties as CEO.

A spokesman said: “The time is still open for Dr Linzbach’s recovery process. The major point is he is getting healthy again step-by-step. He will return when he is 100% fit.”

Linzbach joined the group from outside the industry with a turnaround mandate just under three years ago, when he took over from long-standing chief executive Bernhard Schreier.

Heidelberg UK managing director Gerard Heanue said: "Obviously we wish Gerold a speedy recovery. But the board knows what it's doing, the strategy is in place, and we're all working towards it so it really is business as usual."

Kaliebe (pictured below) has worked at Heidelberg since 1998, and became CFO in October 2006. He is also head of Heidelberg Financial Services.

Heidelberg’s share price slipped by €0.03, or 1.22%, to €2.11 in early trading today.