Pet specialist wholesaler, brand owner and distributor Kennelpak has announced three key leadership changes.
Claire Bayliss, who has served as chief executive officer for three and a half years, will assume the position of executive chair of the board, with Nigel Wright, currently commercial director, promoted to managing director, effective January 1, 2025.
At the same time, Ian Dowell has been promoted to the position of sales & marketing director.
The changes follow a record-breaking year of sales and profits for Kennelpak and the successful sale of the company’s retail business, Pets & Friends, to PSR Trading in August. The revamped team will target further growth as well as a strategic relocation to new premises in the Nottinghamshire area next year.
The Kennelpak group owns and distributes Yakers, Breederpack, Duchess, and Dylan pet supplies, and is the UK supplier of a portfolio of brands including Himalayan Pet Supply, Tall Tails, Yellow Yak, Pet Bakery, Doggi, Taste of the Wild, Diamond Naturals, and Whimzees.
Claire Bayliss said: “Serving as CEO at Kennelpak over the past three and a half years has been an honour and a privilege. Looking back, I couldn’t be prouder of what we’ve achieved together during such a transformative time for Kennelpak. The successful sale of Pets & Friends, coupled with our record-breaking sales and profits, is a true testament to the dedication, hard work, and talent of our exceptional team of colleagues and partners.
“My transition into the role of executive chair reflects both my deep commitment to our mission and our focus on achieving the ambitious strategic goals we’ve set for the future. This transition is part of our planned evolution to ensure Kennelpak is well positioned for its next 50 years. With Nigel at the helm as Managing Director, I am confident that we will execute on our plans and continue delivering exceptional value to our customers, partners, and investor, Endless LLP. “
Nigel Wright, who joined Kennelpak in 2022, added: “I am delighted to step into the role of Managing Director and to continue building on the remarkable journey of growth and success under Claire’s exceptional leadership.
“Kennelpak has a well-deserved reputation as the go-to distributor and wholesaler in the UK for quality specialist pet products. The team and I are committed to driving further growth and success for our customers, partners, colleagues and all of our stakeholders.”
