CONCORD, CALIF., and SEATTLE — Omnichannel pet retailer Pet Food Express appointed a new chief executive officer on Dec. 1. Denyelle Bruno will succeed Michael Levy, founder of the company, who will now serve as president.

“Bruno coming on board is an exciting and natural evolution of our company,” Levy said. “As we look towards the company's future, our goal is to maintain our exceptional culture. Our community focus, along with an unflinching desire to do what’s right for our pets and their owners, will always remain our highest priority.”

Bruno has 25 years of experience in the retail, personal care and hospitality industries, and has worked for Apple, Peet’s Coffee & Tea, Tender Greens and Drybar. She currently serves as board director for the American Veterinarian Group. Bruno has received various recognitions for her work, including 2020 CEO of the Year, Los Angeles Business Journal’s Women’s Leadership Awards, and National Restaurant News’ 50 Most Influential Women.

“Throughout my career, I’ve diligently pursued opportunities in industries in which I am truly passionate, as well as cultures and products I’m proud to stand behind — making Pet Food Express the perfect fit for me and my two dogs: Bowie and Coco,” Bruno said. “By being on the cutting edge of pet industry trends, providing innovative product offerings, and delivering incredible customer service, Pet Food Express has created a best-in-class culture and a phenomenal foundation for exciting growth and expansion.”

Pet Food Express partnered with private equity Rainier Partners earlier this year after receiving an investment from the company.

“An impressive, experienced, growth-oriented leader, Bruno is a perfect fit for Pet Food Express, and we are thrilled to welcome her as chief executive officer,” said Dave Shephard, director of portfolio operations at Rainier. “Michael and the team at Rainier knew we wanted a leader with experience in scaling and building brands while maintaining the heart of a company — and Bruno is exactly that. The team at Rainier is excited to continue to back Pet Food Express as the company enters this next phase of growth.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.