USA – The chairman of dairy company Dean Foods, Howard Dean, retired on Friday.

Dean had worked for Dean Foods for 37 years. He was president from 1970 to 1988 and chairman and chief executive from 1988 to 2002. Commenting on his retirement, Dean said: “I am looking forward to an active retirement, and I wish the new Dean Foods Company success as it continues to grow and prosper as a major food and beverage company.”

Current chief executive and vice chairman Gregg Engles will take over as chairman. Engles said: “We are grateful for Howard Dean’s leadership and assistance through the closing of the merger of Dean Foods and Suiza Foods. He has led the dairy industry through a period of tremendous change and has played a critical role in changing the milk business for the better.”

Dean Foods operates over 120 plants in 38 states and three countries.