LONDONDERRY — After 29 years, Gary Hirshberg announced last week he is stepping down as head of Stonyfield Farm to pursue other endeavors.
But those future plans don't include a run for governor — at least not now.
They do include pushing for change in national food and agriculture policies.
"I'm not planning to (retire) and I don't even know how to play golf," Hirshberg said. "There is a lot to do."
As Gov. John Lynch prepares to leave office after serving four terms, there have been rumors that Hirshberg, 57, would seek election.
But the Stonyfield president and CEO — or "CE Yo" as he's called — said he has no plans to run for governor this year. But, he said, he will continue to closely follow state politics and possibly run in the future.
"I've learned never to say never," he said.
Hirshberg, a Democrat, said the time isn't right for a gubernatorial run. He also doesn't wish to run for a higher office, such as Congress.
"I have no desire to be in Washington," he said.
For now, the Manchester native said he wants to focus his energy on advocating for change in the food industry. He said he has devoted his life to producing healthy foods while working to protect and improve the environment.
The change is a bittersweet move, but it's one Hirshberg said he's looking forward to.
"I feel great," he said. "I feel great about the employees here and great about the future prospects of the company."
It all began in 1983, when Hirshberg co-founded Stonyfield as a seven-cow organic farming school in Wilton. The company grew into a major operation known worldwide for its organically produced yogurt, smoothies, milk, cultured soy, frozen yogurt and soy.
"Now, more than ever, people want to know where their food comes from and to trust the companies behind the brands," Hirshberg said. "The mission of Stonyfield is a lot more than a yogurt company."
That mission will be carried on by former Ben & Jerry's CEO Walt Freese.
Freese, 57, is a Dartmouth business school graduate who said he's excited about returning to New Hampshire to run Stonyfield.
"I couldn't be more thrilled about it," he said last week. "I have admired Gary for years as a leader of a values-based business."
Freese, who left Ben & Jerry's in 2010 after nine years because he wanted a new challenge, said he and Hirshberg first started talking about the change in leadership last fall.
Hirshberg will remain a shareholder and chairman of Stonyfield's board. He also will continue to oversee Stonyfield's sister companies in Europe, its new Stonyfield Cafes and its Profits-for-the-Planet program.
He was appointed by President Barack Obama to the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations, and is co-chairman of AGree — a public policy initiative.
One of Hirshberg's main goals is to push for the labeling of genetically engineered foods.
He said he will keep a close eye on the New Hampshire political scene.
Hirshberg said he's not happy with how lawmakers are running the state, especially after the Legislature made sweeping budget cuts last year. He particularly disagreed with the cuts to university system.
Hirshberg said he thought of running this year because he doesn't see a strong replacement for Lynch.
"I've yet to align myself with a candidate," he said. "I've yet to see a business plan from any candidates I believe in."
Although few people have formally announced a run for governor, the leading contenders include Democrat Maggie Hassan and Republican Ovide Lamontagne. Both expressed interest last fall.
Hirshberg and Stonyfield have had a positive impact on the community over the years, according to Londonderry Town Manager David Caron.
"They have always been a good corporate citizen here in Londonderry," he said.
Caron also praised Hirshberg for his ideals and intelligence.
"I wish Gary the best," he said. "Gary's philosophy permeates throughout the company."
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