Mars has promoted two regional presidents for its Pet Nutrition division, as it aims to expand its presence globally.

After previously leading pet nutrition in Europe for the company, Deri Watkins has been appointed regional president of pet nutrition for the developed Asia Pacific (APAC) region.

Commenting on his five-year stint as regional president, the food manufacturer hailed Watkins’ performance, which includes leading the division through the impacts of the COVID pandemic and supply chain shortages.

A Mars spokesperson said Watkins played an “instrumental part” in supporting the company’s sustainability efforts, such as driving partnerships to support the regenerative agricultural transition across the European pet food Supply Chain.

Speaking on his new role, Watkins said: “I’ve really enjoyed my time leading Pet Nutrition across the European region and seeing what we’ve achieved as a business for the pets and pet parents we serve.

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“I feel fortunate to have worked with so many talented colleagues for over 20 years at Mars, and I look forward to meeting and working with many more of our dedicated Associates in my new role.”

Watkins is set to be replaced by Paolo Rigamonti, who has led Pet Nutrition UK since 2022, expanding to lead the UK, Ireland and the Nordics cluster in 2024.

“Deri has done an excellent job of leading this region for the last five and a half years, and I’m looking forward to continuing this progress, accelerating our goal to be the most pet parent-centric organisation in the world,” said Rigamonti.

Mars Pet Nutrition global president Ikdeep Singh added: “I’m thrilled to welcome Deri and Paolo to their new roles. They are exceptional leaders with a passion for people, pets and pet parents.

“Their diverse experience across geographies will be invaluable as they work alongside key retailers and partners to continue growing and leading the petcare category as we accelerate our ambition to transform the pet parent experience and deliver our purpose: A Better World for Pets.”