Launched in 2023, the Women in Petfood Leadership initiative brings together like-minded professional women in pet food to build a community through networking, career planning, leadership development, and professional support. This program is open to all women — and men — who support cooperation, education, mentoring, and encouragement for women to grow professionally in the pet food industry.
The inaugural event was a networking lunch at Petfood Forum 2023, featuring a presentation by Mary Kelly, a former U.S. Navy commander. Participation was limited to 50 attendees. In 2024, the networking lunch expanded to accommodate more participants, once again reaching full capacity. The event featured Tamara Ghandour as the keynote speaker, further reinforcing the initiative’s commitment to fostering connections and empowering women in the pet food industry.
By 2025, the initiative continues to gain momentum and membership. Over the past year, the group has expanded beyond Petfood Forum, hosting networking events at SuperZoo in Las Vegas, the International Production & Processing Expo (IPPE) in Atlanta, and most recently, Global Pet Expo in Orlando.
Women in Petfood Leadership brings together like-minded professional women in pet food to build a community and interact by offering opportunities for networking, career planning, leadership development and professional support.Paul Ward PhotographyThe importance of gender diversity in pet food leadership
Gail Kuhlman, retired technical fellow in research and development at Mars Petcare North America, and a board member for Women in Petfood Leadership, noted the growing number of women entering the industry, alongside the historic lack of women in leadership roles. This environment created the perfect foundation for a group dedicated to the career development of women in pet food.
“The pet food industry, like many others, has historically seen underrepresentation of women in leadership roles,” Kuhlman said. “Despite the growing recognition of the need for diversity and inclusion, women remain significantly underrepresented at the executive level and in decision-making positions.”
This lack of representation stems from various factors, including traditional gender roles, unconscious biases, and a lack of mentorship and sponsorship for women aspiring to leadership positions.
Recent research from the IBM Institute for Business Value found that diverse leadership teams achieve 19% greater growth. The report highlighted the crucial role of diversity in leadership and the need for mentorship programs, leadership development, and inclusive policies to overcome barriers such as unconscious bias and limited career advancement opportunities.
“Women in Petfood Leadership is essential to our industry because it creates a space for knowledge-sharing, professional development, collaboration, and continuous learning opportunities,” said Leah Lambrakis, vice president of R&D, nutrition, and scientific affairs at Simmons Pet Food & Simmons Animal Nutrition, and a Women in Petfood Leadership board member. “These forums empower women not only to elevate their voices but also to contribute diverse perspectives, experiences, and ideas while collectively addressing challenges.”
New educational track focused on women
At Petfood Forum on April 29, a new career development track focused on women in pet food will take place. While these sessions are powered by Women in Petfood Leadership, they are open to all Petfood Forum participants.
- 1:30 p.m. – Career Development: Connectivity and Leadership
Led by Karen Jones, vice president of learning and partner solutions for NextUp, this session will explore how making connections within the pet food industry— and beyond — can help professionals grow as leaders, particularly in a hybrid work environment. Post-COVID challenges persist in finding one’s voice, making meaningful connections, and leading teams effectively. - 3:00 p.m. – Panel Discussion: Women in Pet Food Share Their Leadership Experiences
A panel of industry executives will discuss their leadership experiences, challenges, and successes. Attendees are encouraged to bring their questions. Panelists will be announced soon.
Expanding networking opportunities
In addition to the new educational track, Petfood Forum is expanding networking opportunities for women in the pet food industry.
- Networking Lunch – April 29 (Exhibit Hall A)
Join Women in Petfood Leadership members for a networking lunch and discussion. Look for committee members and reserved table signs. - Afternoon Networking Reception – April 29 (4:15 p.m.)
Connect with fellow Women in Petfood Leadership members during the exhibit hall networking reception. Location and time to be announced.
Petfood Forum and Petfood Essentials 2025 will take place April 28-30 in Kansas City, U.S. To stay informed on the latest event developments, go to PetfoodForumEvents.com.
The Women in Petfood Leadership program is sponsored by ADM, AFB International, Camlin Fine Sciences, Ecolab, Extru-Tech Inc., Kemin Nutrisurance, Kerry, the Peterson Co., Simmons Animal Nutrition, TC Transcontinental, Trouw Nutrition, Zinpro Corp.
This initiative is made possible by several leading women in the pet food manufacturing industry. Thank you to committee members Jennifer Igou with Camlin, Gail Kuhlman with GXK Consulting, Leah Lambrakis with Simmons Pet Food, Leigh Ann Sayen with The Peterson Co., and Laura Moran with LPM Innovate