Brooks stepping down at Pet Food Institute

Dana Brooks, president and CEO of the Pet Food Institute for the past seven years, will step down in April 2026. 

She will remain in her role with the organization representing cat and dog food manufacturers as the search for her successor takes place.

“As someone who firmly believes in the unconditional love between humans and their pets—the human-animal bond—I am honored to have led this organization for more than seven years, and to have worked alongside my colleagues, who impress me every day,” Brooks said. 

Before joining PFI in 2018, Brooks served in government relations and public policy roles at Land O’Lakes, the National Milk Producers Federation and American Farm Bureau Federation.

An Arkansas native, Brooks was a cotton scout as well as a grain merchandiser and rice buyer before coming to Washington. She has worked in the nation's capital for more than 25 years. 

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“We are deeply grateful for Dana's dedicated service to PFI and the pet food industry. Her leadership has been instrumental to the success of our work,” said Scott Salmon, president at Simmon’s Pet Food and Pet Food Institute board chair. “Dana's impact over the last seven-and-a-half-years is immeasurable, and she will be deeply missed. We wish her all the best as she begins her next chapter.”

Brooks was named a Woman of Influence by Pet Age and to the Power 50 list, which recognizes the pet industry's most impactful and influential people. She also served on the board of directors for Pet Partners and the Global Alliance of Pet Food Associations. 

The Pet Food Institute has initiated a board search committee to work with an executive search firm to guide the succession process. 

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