The Pet Food Manufacturers’ Association (PFMA) has welcomed in its new chairman, Greg Van Praagh, managing director of Benyfit Natural.

He takes over from Tony Parkinson, managing director of Town & Country Pet Foods, who will continue to play a role as PFMA past chairman. Nicola Fox, general manager, pet at Spectrum Brands, is the PFMA’s new vice chair.

In addition to his role as PFMA chairman, Mr Van Praagh will also take a seat on the FEDIAF executive committee. FEDIAF represents national pet food associations from 18 European countries.

Mr Van Praagh said: “I have represented the commercial raw pet food sector within PFMA membership at the executive committee for a number of years now. I am excited and honoured to take up this role shaping the way forward for the industry.

“Being able to share our work and experiences of the UK raw pet food sector with our colleagues in Europe, is a fantastic new opportunity. Tony will be a tough act to follow but we have a strong chair team and we will continue to work together.”

Michael Bellingham, PFMA’s chief executive added: “We have experienced some tumultuous years with Brexit and COVID-19. A strong leadership team has helped us weather these unchartered waters.

“We’ve continued to support our members helping their business operations run as smoothly as possible. Thank you to the chair team and all our committee members who help make this happen.”