MARKHAM, ONTARIO — Pet Valu Holdings Ltd. shared that Danielle Barran has joined its board of directors, effective July 2. The company also announced that Lawrence Molloy was elected to the board during Pet Valu’s Annual General Meeting of Shareholders on May 9.

Barran and Molloy succeed Rick Puckett and Steven Townsend, both of whom have retired.

Barran has more than 25 years of experience in the food and beverage industry within North America. She currently serves as president of McCain Foods’ North American Potato and Canada businesses. Prior to joining McCain Foods in 2018, Barran held various leadership roles at The J.M. Smucker Company during her 16-year tenure there, gaining experience in the company’s pet, coffee and natural foods divisions. She also served as vice president of commercial strategy for Smucker’s pet business, establishing growth strategies for its Meow Mix®, Natural Balance® and Milk-Bone® brands.

“I am delighted to join Pet Valu’s board of directors and support the business through its next stage of growth,” Barran said. “With a reputable brand known everywhere across Canada, Pet Valu is uniquely positioned to capture growth in the resilient pet industry. I look forward to leveraging my pet industry experience to support management's delivery of sustainable and profitable growth over the long term.”

According to Pet Valu, Barran is known for her authentic leadership, business transformation guidance and DEI advocacy.

“We are excited to have Danielle join our board,” said Richard Maltsbarger, president and chief executive officer. “She brings a depth of experience with iconic consumer packaged goods including pet products, a keen eye for consumer marketing of those brands and expands our board's experience across the overall food sector.

“We are also pleased that Pet Valu will re-achieve its board gender diversity target with Danielle’s appointment,” he added. “Diversity across all levels of management and governance is a key element in our ongoing success, enabling us to make informed strategic decisions that better relate to our diverse customer and franchise owner populations.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.