Red Collar Pet Foods, a leading private label and national brand contract manufacturer of pet food and treats, named Jim Cohen as president and CEO. Cohen, who has served as interim president and CEO since November, brings a wealth of experience from the consumer package goods industry to the Franklin, Tenn., based company.
“Jim’s unique mix of deep operational expertise at globally renowned brands, entrepreneurial experience and strategic advisement in the consumer package goods industry fit perfectly with Red Collar’s next phase of growth,” said Tim Fallon, Arbor senior operating partner and chairman of Red Collar. “We are thrilled he has joined to lead Red Collar at a pivotal time in this growing industry.”
Red Collar was formed in December 2018 by the acquisition of the Exclusive Brands pet food and treats business of Mars Petcare US by Arbor Investments, a specialized private equity firm focusing exclusively on acquiring premier companies in food, beverage and related industries. Investment in Red Collar continued in February 2019 with the acquisition of Hampshire Pet Products to capitalize on the dynamic pet treats market.
“In just four months serving as interim president and CEO, I have been thoroughly impressed by the dedication of Red Collar associates and the commitment by Arbor in the company’s mission to be the preferred co-manufacturing partner for our customers and the pets they serve,” said Cohen. “We will continue to build the business, capitalizing on the significant achievements made since Arbor’s initial investment, with a focus on profitable growth and the bright future providing high-quality, nutritious and safe pet products.”
Cohen’s leadership in operations, supply chain and procurement spans more than 30 years, with nearly 20 years in the pet nutrition, confectionery and food segments of Mars. He began his career at Aramark and most recently advised an array of clients from start-up companies to multinational organizations on a range of operational matters in his own consultancy. Cohen holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Boston University; is a board member for Western Smokehouse Partners, a manufacturer of meat snacks and serves as a business advisor to Relief Rover, an online resource for veterinary professionals.
