NOVATO, CALIF. — Worldwise, Inc., a pet supplies platform owned by A&M Capital Partners (AMCP), announced May 15 the appointment of Jeff Sutherland to chief operating officer. With more than 30 years of experience in the pet industry, Sutherland will work closely with Worldwise’s Chief Executive Officer Kevin Fick.

“Worldwise is a tremendous company with an outstanding team and compelling growth prospects, and I could not be more excited to start this new role with them,” Sutherland said. “The company has taken significant steps to position itself as an emerging leader in the pet products space, which was what initially drew my attention to this opportunity. Once I learned more about the business and the people behind it — including the partners at AMCP — I knew it was the right place for me. I want to thank Kevin and the Worldwise team for their warm welcome, and I look forward to contributing to this impressive organization for years to come.”

Prior to joining Worldwise, Sutherland served as president of Redbarn Products, a manufacturer of premium pet foods, treats and chews. While at Redbarn, Sutherland directed company-wide operations and helped the business grow significantly in the past five years. Before his work at Redbard, Sutherland held a variety of leadership roles in marketing, operations and sales at distributor Animal Supply Company and Central Garden and Pet.

“Jeff is an accomplished executive and esteemed leader within our industry, and bringing him onboard is a major development for Worldwise,” Fick said. “As a company that is fast-growing, it is critical that we build an elite team to support and manage our evolution. I believe the skillset, experience, and relationships that Jeff possesses will help strengthen several key areas of our business — from sales, distribution, and manufacturing, to acquisitions, team building, and brand management. On behalf of the entire Worldwise family, I want to welcome Jeff to the team.”