"People will continue to research this thing for years - and fight about it," Mr. Pace said.

Mr. Pace, 68, had made known his plans to retire and the company has been searching for a replacement.

Mr. Pace was the superintendent of the park until 1988.

Mr. Pace turned his office into a war room.

Mr. Pace plans to maintain or increase exports even when the local market picks up, as it is just starting to do.

Mr. Pace said he saw two adverse consequences of the inspections.

Mr. Pace said company executives were also concerned about "a more subtle problem."

Mr. Pace, who was also the school's athletic director for two years, had a 22-38-2 record as coach.

Mr. Pace said he offered these deals to friends and colleagues as well.

"Nothing says we have to be a $10 billion company," Mr. Pace said.