ROCKFORD, ILL. — Phelps Pet Products has expanded its leadership team with the appointment of Chuck Bridges as vice president of manufacturing, supply chain and logistics. According to Phelps, Bridges’ appointment coincides with a significant investment in innovation and capacity, as well as an increase in sales.

“We are thrilled to add someone with Chuck’s operations expertise to our experienced supply chain team,” said Rick Ruffolo, chief executive officer and president of Phelps. “Chuck will have an immediate impact on the business, and his leadership will help us continue to raise the bar for our operations.”

Bridges has a range of experience in operations and supply chain management from a variety of industries. He has a master’s degree in business administration from Western New England University and a degree in chemical engineering.

“I am eager to join the Phelps organization and to help build upon the company’s category-leading innovation in jerky dog treats, to further elevate our customer service, and to more than double our production output later this year,” Bridges said. “I already feel welcomed and look forward to collaborating with my new colleagues.”

In February, Phelps Pet Products announced it had acquired a full fleet of manufacturing equipment from Simmons Pet Food, which it will house at a new facility. The company plans to invest more than $20 million in the expansion, hoping to build on its current production capacity and add capabilities for producing shaped jerky-style pet treats.

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.