Mars boosts pet nutrition leadership with two new regional presidents

GLOBAL – Mars, Incorporated has announced the appointment of two new Regional Presidents for its Pet Nutrition division, marking a strategic move to strengthen its global presence. 

Effective March 1, 2025, Deri Watkins will take on the role of Regional President for Pet Nutrition Developed Asia Pacific (APAC), while Paolo Rigamonti steps into the position of Regional President for Pet Nutrition Europe.

Deri Watkins, a seasoned executive with over two decades at Mars, has been leading Pet Nutrition Europe for the past five years. 

During his tenure, he navigated challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions while spearheading sustainability initiatives. 

His leadership played a key role in Mars’ efforts to incorporate regenerative agriculture into its pet food supply chain across Europe.

On the other hand, Paolo Rigamonti, who has been at the helm of Pet Nutrition UK since 2022, later expanded his leadership to cover the UK, Ireland, and Nordics in 2024. 

A strong advocate for pet-friendly living environments, Rigamonti has been a driving force behind Mars’ Better Cities for Pets program. In his new role, he aims to continue building Mars’ presence in the European pet care industry.

Mars’ Global President of Pet Nutrition, Ikdeep Singh, emphasised the significance of these leadership changes, saying: 

“Deri and Paolo are exceptional leaders with a passion for people, pets, and pet parents. Their diverse experience across global markets will be instrumental as we continue to grow and lead the pet care category.”

These appointments reflect Mars’ broader strategy to reinforce its leadership in pet care, an industry that is growing exponentially. 

With increasing demand for high-quality pet nutrition and sustainability-driven innovation, the company aims to strengthen its partnerships with retailers and expand its impact globally.

Mars Petcare announces winners of pet food challenge 

In parallel with these leadership appointments, Mars Petcare and EIT Food have announced the winners of the Fiber Valorisation for Pet Food Challenge. 

This initiative seeks to transform agricultural byproducts into nutritious pet food ingredients, supporting Mars’ commitment to sustainability and circular economy practices.

BioscienZ and CREMER Sustainable Nutrition were selected as winners from over 50 applicants. Their innovative approaches focus on improving ingredient quality, taste, and digestibility in pet food. 

As part of their victory, both companies will collaborate with Mars Petcare to develop proof-of-concept studies, potentially leading to long-term partnerships.

Michael Horan, Global S&T Platform Leader in Material Science at Mars Petcare, highlighted the importance of these initiatives: “We’re on a mission to create more sustainable pet food solutions. By partnering with BioscienZ and CREMER Sustainable Nutrition, we have a significant opportunity to develop new ingredients and support a more circular economy.”

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