BEDMINSTER, NJ. — Freshpet Inc. announced the appointment of Nicki Baty to chief operating officer, effective Sept. 1. Baty will report directly to Billy Cyr, chief executive officer of the fresh pet food company.

“Freshpet is changing the pet food industry, and we intend to continue our rapid growth,” Cyr said. “Nicki brings us a proven track record of scaling a large business, a commitment to animal health and wellbeing, and broad international experience that will support our efforts to accomplish our goals. We are excited to welcome Nicki to the team to help take us to the next level as a multi-billion-dollar organization. Nicki has demonstrated success in areas that we have identified as future Freshpet opportunities for growth, and we believe she will be a great addition to the team to help us build on our solid momentum.” 

Baty brings extensive operational and leadership experience, having spent nearly 20 years at Colgate-Palmolive where she most recently served as president and general manager of Hill’s Pet Nutrition US. During her tenure at Colgate-Palmolive, she served as senior vice president of Global Sales and general manager of Latin America and Asia for Hill’s Pet Nutrition, general manager of the Nordic Region, general manager of the Netherlands, and European customer development director.

“The team has built Freshpet into an incredible business, pioneering fresh pet food in the United States and transforming the category. Many households in the United States are now Freshpet shoppers and I believe there is terrific runway to scale the business,” Baty said. “I look forward to bringing my commercial, operational and global experience to the team and contributing to Freshpet’s future success.”

Baty will have responsibilities consistent with her role as COO. However, until May 10, 2025, her commercial responsibilities will be limited to the Mass, Grocery and Club channels.

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.