Julian Blackwell is to step down as chairman of the multi-million pound family book business Blackwell's after 45 years with the firm.

Sir Roger Elliott, a former chief executive of Oxford University Press and president of the Publishers' Association, will take his place as chairman.

Mr Blackwell, who will remain on the board as president and non-executive director, said: "I recently turned 70 and completed 45 years in the business, and feel that it is time to hand over as I have some living to do."

He added: "I shall certainly still be involved in the business. My grandfather put our name above the door 120 years ago and my family are determined to keep it there."

In a separate move, Mr Blackwell's elder son Philip becomes a non-executive director. He is a director of business consultancy Cap Gemini.

Blackwell's chief executive Anthony Thompson said: "Julian Blackwell's enthusiastic leadership and shrewd business sense have helped to consolidate Blackwell's position in the international book and journal business and as the UK's leading academic and professional bookselling chain."

Sir Roger said: "It is a great honour and responsibility to take over as chairman and I realise that I have a difficult act to follow."

Story date: Friday 12 February

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