Washington, District of Columbia, United States, February 2026 – The Pet Food Institute (PFI) has announced that Elise Fennig has been named President and Chief Executive Officer, effective March 16, 2026. She succeeds Dana Brooks, who has led the organization since 2018.
Fennig brings extensive experience leading national trade associations and advancing collaborative, member-driven strategies across the food and consumer products sectors. She is widely recognized for her operational leadership, strategic insight, and ability to guide organizations through growth and transformation.
“Elise is an accomplished executive with deep experience across the food industry and a strong understanding of the issues facing manufacturers today,” said Scott Salmon, Chair of PFI’s Board of Directors. He noted that she is well-positioned to build on PFI’s momentum and guide the organization into its next chapter, strengthening its advocacy on behalf of pet food manufacturers and the pets they serve.
Most recently, Fennig served as Chief of Staff and Senior Vice President of Industry Engagement at the National Confectioners Association, where she oversaw organizational operations, strategic initiatives, and cross-functional teams supporting membership, events, industry affairs, and global engagement. Previously, she held leadership roles at the Consumer Brands Association (formerly the Grocery Manufacturers Association), the American Frozen Food Institute, and The Kraft Heinz Company.
Outgoing CEO Dana Brooks expressed confidence in the transition, highlighting Fennig’s leadership experience, collaborative approach, and commitment to supporting food makers as key strengths that will help PFI continue to evolve and serve its members effectively.
Fennig said she is honored to join PFI and build on the strong foundation established by Brooks and the team. She emphasized PFI’s vital role in reinforcing confidence in the safety, quality, and nutrition of pet food, and expressed her commitment to advancing the industry’s shared dedication to pets and pet owners.
Fennig holds a graduate degree in public relations from the University of Florida and a bachelor’s degree in foreign affairs and Spanish from the University of Virginia.
About Pet Food Institute
Established in 1958, the Pet Food Institute is the trade association representing U.S. cat and dog food manufacturers that provide complete and balanced nutrition to pets in 94 million U.S. households. Its members account for the majority of dog and cat food produced in the United States, generating more than $65 billion in domestic annual sales and over $2.4 billion in annual exports.
PFI members contribute significantly to rural communities, employing more than 35,000 people across 34 states and purchasing over $13.2 billion in agricultural inputs from U.S. farmers and ranchers annually.
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