NEW YORK — Better Choice Company, Inc., on June 13 announced the promotions of Robert Sauermann to chief operating officer and Donald Young to chief sales officer.

Sauermann originally joined Better Choice Company in December 2019, in conjunction with the company’s acquisition of Halo, formerly serving as executive vice president of strategy and finance.

Prior to his career with Better Choice Company, Sauermann served as investment professional for Pegasus Capital Advisors, the previous owner of Halo, and served on Halo’s board from 2017 to 2019, leading the sale of Halo to Better Choice Company. Sauermann also served on the boards of Organiz Recycling, National Strategies and currently serves on SGV International’s board. During his time at Pegasus Capital, Sauermann aided in the growth of equity, focusing on animal health and wellness investments.

Donald Young joined Better Choice Company in 2021 as vice president of sales for the company’s brand Halo Pets.

Prior to Better Choice Company, Young worked for various pet specialty pet food companies, including The Nutro Brand, owner of Natural Choice, MAX and Greenies brands; and Merrick Pet Care, Inc., owner of Merrick, Backcountry, Puurfect Bistro and Fresh Kisses brands. From 2010 to 2020, Young led the expansion of Merrick Pet Care’s pet specialty segment, helping to quadruple its sales to more than $500 million. Young also led the sale of Merrick Pet Care to Nestle Purina.

With more than 30 years of experience in the pet food market, Young received Pet Age’s 2019 Icon award, as well as various other industry recognitions.

“On behalf of the entire board we are proud to announce the well-deserved promotions of Rob and Donald to chief operating officer and chief sales officer, respectively,” said Michael Young, chairman of Better Choice Company’s board. “Both have shown a true passion for the business and exceptional leadership since the first day they joined Better Choice. Both of their contributions have been invaluable to not only driving the growth of the business, but also creating a great company culture for our employees.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.