auburn – Among the accolades and the glad-handing at Tambrands’ groundbreaking Wednesday was one especially broad smiling face.

Dennis Rogers, a longtime advocate for Maine manufacturing and the public face of Tambrands for the past 10 years, will retire Friday. The 67-year-old was still at it Wednesday though, leading tours of the 500,000-square-foot plant, happy for the occasion to brag about Tambrands to visiting dignitaries.

“I think this is an auspicious way to pass the reins,” he said, returning his tour group to a ceremonial tent. “Procter & Gamble has brought us to where we are today, able to operate in a low-cost, competitive manner.”

Rogers made countless trips to Augusta to lobby on behalf of manufacturers on bills related to energy, taxes, workers’ comp and other big cost drivers. He was often in the hallways, waiting to testify on issues like the impact of business equipment taxes and greenhouse gas initiatives.

His impending retirement was noted by Gov. John Baldacci, who attended the groundbreaking and thanked Rogers for his service.

“You’ve been so helpful here and in Augusta . . . we appreciate your leadership,” said Baldacci, whose comments were met with applause. He also welcomed Rick Malinowski, who is replacing Rogers at Tambrands.

Clad in a yellow “Auburn – a passion for excellence” P&G polo shirt, Rogers said he’s looking forward to retirement.

“I’ve worked for 47 years … I think the time is right,” he said, adding he looks forward to ending his daily commute from Kennebunkport.

But he intends to stay busy, working on the executive boards of the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and the Maine Pulp and Paper Association, as well as the Auburn Business Development Corp.

“I’d still like to remain active in public policy, especially with respect to manufacturing,” he said. “I hope I can find ways to continue to contribute.”

– Carol Coultas