Gerard Heanue is stepping down as managing director of Heidelberg UK from March 2019. Mr Heanue, who has been with the company for almost 25 years, will also leave his position as MD of operations in Sweden, Denmark and South Africa.
Though leaving Heidelberg Mr Heanue will not be leaving the print sector. He will continue to be involved with trade body Picon, where he is currently chairman, and with the Stationers’ Company where he is treasurer of the Foundation, the charitable arm of the Livery, and serves on the Court.
Mr Heanue’s career with Heidelberg began in 1995 when he was appointed finance director of Heidelberg UK. He has since served as chief financial officer of Heidelberg Asia Pacific and chief financial officer of Heidelberg Europe, Middle East and Africa, returning to the UK eight years ago.
‘I am 57 and always planned to retire early and I think this is the right time,’ Mr Heanue explained. ‘I have really enjoyed my time with Heidelberg and, as managing director of Heidelberg UK, I have a great team around me, always adjusting to meet changing market needs.
‘We have different but complementary skills on the board and this has led to the UK consistently being one of the top performing sales and service units for Heidelberg. We have exceptional strength in depth within the company and I’m proud of the employee engagement and customer service we provide.
‘Our customers have been instrumental in driving our performance. They have embraced technology to make the UK the most competitive and productive environment for print for Heidelberg. The way some customers are constantly trying to improve and add value for their customers Is really impressive. This pushes Heidelberg, too, as we strive to constantly improve our products and portfolio.’
Heidelberg is currently looking for a replacement for Mr Heanue.
