Reisch Exits Quebecor World

MONTREAL—Marc L. Reisch, president and CEO of Quebecor World North America, has made a quick departure from his post, leaving the company he helped transition and integrate during the largest-ever merger in the history of the commercial printing industry.

Reisch's departure, which had been rumored for several weeks, was made official in a brief company press release issued September 17. The release cited Reisch's desire to pursue other opportunities as the reason for leaving.

His position will not be filled, according to Tony Ross, communications director for the world's largest printer. However, the company did announce that John Paloian and David Boles, respective heads of the Magazine/Catalog and Retail and Sunday Magazines divisions, were named co-chief operating officers. They will report directly to Charles G. Cavell, president and CEO.

"Marc has made a great contribution to Quebecor World and we wish him well in his future endeavors," Cavell said in the statement. "Quebecor World's North American business is managed along core product lines. Each product group is headed by a strong management team that is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the business. The presidents and their respective teams will continue to provide the leadership and customer service that makes our company the world's leading print media services company."

According to the release, Reisch feels it is time for him to tackle other challenges. "I am pleased with what we have accomplished in making Quebecor World the number one global printer," he said. "After completing the successful merger of Quebecor Printing and World Color Press, I believe now is the right time for me to move on to other challenges. I am also proud of the fact that I am leaving behind the most capable and dynamic management team in the industry."

Sudden Departure

Ross said that while Reisch's resignation was considered effective immediately, he offered to stay aboard during an undetermined transition period. But Reisch's secretary at Quebecor World's U.S. headquarters in Greenwich, CT, said that the company had decided not to use him in the transition and that he had left the company, but would be checking his voice mail. Reisch did not return a message left there.