Meet the team
We have a small core team of 5; all pet owners and all passionate about what we do!
Chief Executive
Chief Executive
Michael joined the association in 2004. Before that he worked in both retail and food trade associations in the UK. In 2000 he moved to Brussels to run a European cereals association, which focused on international trade issues. As well as looking after the Executive Committee, which has financial and strategic oversight of UK Pet Food, Michael also runs the Fish and Raw Pet Food Groups. Michael has a degree in Politics from Durham University and an MA in European Studies from South Bank University. Michael and his family share their home with the lovely Tessa, a schnoodle.
Deputy Chief Executive
Deputy Chief Executive
Nicole works alongside Michael shaping the strategic direction of UK Pet Food. Nicole leads on stakeholder engagement, sustainability and oversees the UK Pet Food internal and external communications, which includes the Press Office. She participates in the All Party Parliamentary Group for Animal Welfare and the running of National Pet Month. Hebe, the cat, is happy for Nicole and family to share her house.
Technical and Regulatory Affairs Manager
Technical and Regulatory Affairs Manager
Donna Joined UK Pet Food in May 2023 as Technical & Regulatory Affairs Manager in her 30th year working in the pet food industry. Previously her focus within manufacturing has been on the industrialisation and technical developments of new products and process, always ensuring pet food safety, quality, and compliance.
With UK Pet Food Donna will look after all technical and regulatory issues, acting as an intermediary between Government and the industry, and providing advice to members. Donna co-ordinates the technical and regulatory working groups at UK Pet Food as well as the quarterly Technical Review Committee.
Head of Science and Education
Head of Science and Education
Sarah has an MSc in Animal Nutrition and is the principle link between UK Pet Food members and universities and the veterinary professionals. Following her graduation with a BSc in Zoology (2007) Sarah worked as a veterinary assistant in a small animal practice in her native Iran, advising pet owners and assisting vets during treatments, operations and dental procedures. Since joining UK Pet Food in 2011, she served the organisation in a number of different roles, introducing new initiatives to benefit members, pet professionals and pet owners. Sarah oversees all scientific communications and educational initiatives, including running conferences and trainings, speaking at external events, designing educational resources and advising members on technical and regulatory issues. Sarah is a proud parent to Levin, a handsome Shetland sheepdog!
Membership & Events Executive
Membership & Events Executive
Beth is UK Pet Food's Membership and Events Executive. Her role includes producing member updates, managing social media & website content and the organisation of events. Beth has a Bio-veterinary Science degree from RVC and she has worked with animals as a Kennel & Enforcement Manager, so has a background in animal welfare. Beth is the proud owner of her beautiful lurcher Tuva, who puts a smile on every face she meets!