NEW YORK — Benebone announced June 14 the appointment of Rob Stephenson as senior director of sales. Stephenson brings more than 20 years of pet industry sales leadership experience to his new role.

Before joining the company, Stephenson represented several strong pet industry brands while serving at NEMA Associates, including Benebone.

"We've considered Rob a Benebone family member for years," said Peter Toolan, chief executive officer of the US-made dog chew company. "He has a fantastic combination of skills, work ethic, and experience. Given our brand's iconic design and visual identity, Rob's creative background is a perfect match. We would like to thank NEMA Associates for their continued partnership with Benebone. NEMA is best-in-class, so we're honored to have a NEMA rep join the Benebone family."

Stephenson will focus on serving pet specialty retailers across the United States in his new role. He will work alongside Bob Lee, vice president of sales, and Bucky Webb, senior director of sales.

"I take pride in working with top shelf companies with a purpose,” Stephenson said. “For the last six years, I've gotten to know the team at Benebone and have been deeply proud to represent them. I've admired Benebone's leadership, innovation, and culture. I'm excitedly looking forward to adding my skill set to the team and watching where we go from here! The future is bright!"

Stephenson graduated from Pratt Institute, a New York-based school of art, culture, design and business.

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.