Mars appoints Christina Ruggiero to lead North America pet nutrition business

USA – Mars, Incorporated has appointed Christina Ruggiero as Regional President of Mars Pet Nutrition North America, placing her in charge of one of the company’s largest businesses as it seeks to accelerate growth across its portfolio of science-backed pet nutrition brands.

Ruggiero assumed the role on July 1 and will oversee Mars Pet Nutrition’s operations in the United States and Canada, leading brands including PEDIGREE®, IAMS®, SHEBA®, CESAR®, GREENIES™, TEMPTATIONS® and NUTRO™.

She succeeds at a time when demand for premium, health-focused pet nutrition continues to rise, with pet owners increasingly seeking products that support hydration, gut health, dental care, healthy ageing and overall wellness.

Mars said Ruggiero will drive the company’s next phase of growth through science-based innovation, omnichannel expansion, digital transformation, and operational excellence, while strengthening partnerships with retailers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders.

“Throughout my career, I’ve been drawn to businesses with category-defining brands, strong purpose and opportunities to create meaningful impact,” said Ruggiero.

“Mars Pet Nutrition combines world-class science, culturally fluent brands and a deep understanding of the role pets play in people’s lives. 

I’m excited to join the team at such an important time for the business and help accelerate growth, strengthen innovation and give pet parents greater confidence in the choices they make every day for the pets we love.”

Ruggiero joins Mars from The Coca-Cola Company, where she most recently served as President of the Global Nutrition Category, managing a US$9 billion portfolio that included Minute Maid, Simply, fairlife, Innocent, Maaza and Santa Clara. 

During her tenure, the division became one of Coca-Cola’s fastest-growing businesses.

Before that, she served as President of Coca-Cola’s North America Central Zone and spent nearly four years as Chairperson and Chief Executive Officer of Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages in India, where she significantly expanded the company’s retail footprint.

Earlier in her career, she held procurement, operations and supply chain leadership positions at Diageo, overseeing teams across North America, Europe, Russia and Africa, after beginning her professional career as a cryptologist in the U.S. Navy.

Premium pet nutrition continues to drive growth

Mars said the appointment comes as the North American pet care market continues to expand. 

Nearly two-thirds of Americans now own pets, while more than four in five pet owners consider nutrition the most important contributor to their pets’ health, driving demand for scientifically formulated diets and functional nutrition products.

The company has increasingly focused on developing nutrition solutions that support lifelong pet health through research and innovation, positioning pet nutrition as one of its fastest-growing businesses globally.

Ruggiero holds a master’s degree in management from the University of Huddersfield and a bachelor’s degree from Marymount College. 

She has also been recognised for her leadership in diversity and inclusion, receiving awards for promoting inclusive workplace cultures throughout her career.

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