(PRESS RELEASE) WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Pet Food Institute (PFI), whose members make the vast majority of dog and cat food and treats in the United States, today announced that Elise Fennig has been named president and chief executive officer, effective March 16, 2026. Fennig succeeds Dana Brooks, who has served as PFI’s president and CEO 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 periods of growth and change.
“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. “She is the right leader to build on PFI’s momentum and to guide the organization into its next chapter, strengthening our work on behalf of pet food makers and the pets they serve.”
Most recently, Fennig served as chief of staff and as senior vice president of industry engagement at the National Confectioners Association, where she oversaw organizational operations, strategic initiatives, and cross-functional teams supporting membership and events, industry affairs, and global engagement. Previously, she held leadership roles at Consumer Brands Association (formerly the Grocery Manufacturers Association), at the American Frozen Food Institute, and more recently, at The Kraft Heinz Company.
“After eight years leading PFI, I am confident the organization is well-positioned for the future,” said Brooks, PFI’s outgoing president and CEO. “Elise’s leadership experience, collaborative approach, and commitment to supporting food makers make her exceptionally well-suited to lead PFI forward. I am proud of what we have built together with our members and look forward to seeing the organization continue to evolve under Elise’s guidance.”
“I am honored to join the Pet Food Institute and build on the strong foundation that Dana and the PFI team have established,” said Fennig. “PFI plays a vital role in supporting pet food makers and reinforcing confidence in the safety, quality, and nutrition of pet food. I look forward to working with the Board, staff, and members to advance the industry’s shared commitment to pets and the people who care for them.”
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, PFI is the trade association representing U.S. cat and dog food manufacturers providing complete and balanced nutrition for the dogs and cats in 94 million U.S. households. Our members account for most of the dog and cat food made in the United States, with more than $65 billion in domestic annual dog and cat food and treats sales and annual exports of more than $2.4 billion. PFI’s members collectively contribute to rural communities’ vibrancy by employing over 35,000 people in 34 states, purchasing over $13.2 billion in agricultural inputs from U.S. farmers and ranchers. Visit petfoodinstitute.org to learn more.