The Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) has appointed Jim Lamancusa as the organization's executive director.
With a proven track record of leadership, entrepreneurial experience, sustainability initiatives and new product development, Lamancusa brings a business growth-oriented perspective to driving sustainability impact throughout the pet industry, said PSC. Known for his strategic vision, with a deep focus on sales and marketing, his commitment to excellence will help guide PSC through its next stage of growth and innovation.
Lamancusa brings 20 years of expertise as a champion of sustainability-focused high-growth businesses. As one of the Eco-Products’ first employees, he helped grow the brand from $1 million to $75 million in five years. He has held senior leadership positions in several CPG brands and most recently founded Cusa Tea and Coffee in 2015 and led them to a successful exit last April.
“We are excited to welcome Jim to the PSC family," said David Yaskulka, chair of the PSC board of directors. “I know PSC’s members will benefit from working with him, and so will the planet.” His thoughtful leadership approach, inspiring presence and proven leadership in growing sustainability-focused businesses make him the ideal candidate to lead us into the next decade."
PSC cofounder and first executive director, Caitlyn Dudas, will remain with the organization as senior advisor. Interim executive director, Donald Castellucci, remains as COO. Director of member services, Erin Haas, and director of marketing, Kristen Smith, round out the existing leadership team reporting to Lamancusa.
Lamancusa joins the organization at a time of strong growth, innovation, and industry recognition, said the association. The coalition partners with brands, producers, manufacturers, suppliers, distributors and retailers, creating roadmaps for a company’s journey toward sustainability and providing detailed support every step of the way.
PSC offers hands-on project support and consulting covering a wide range of sustainability topics including supplier questionnaires, life cycle assessments, carbon accounting, codes of conduct, employee engagement, and energy and waste facility audits. At an industry level, PSC convenes experts to help the industry tackle some of the most significant issues facing the pet space: sustainable packaging and responsible ingredient sourcing.
As the new executive director, Lamancusa will be responsible for the overall vision and execution of the coalition’s crucial work, focusing on organizational growth and deepening PSC’s credibility in the industry. PSC noted his leadership will drive PSC toward achieving its strategic goals, fostering innovation and maintaining organizational commitment to advancing business through profitable environmental and social practices.
“Taking over the reins from someone as skilled and passionate as Caitlyn Dudas is a humbling responsibility and I feel fortunate to be able to learn from her and this excellent team as we move through a seamless transition," said Lamancusa. "I also can’t wait to dive in to help drive PSC’s continued growth while we make a meaningful difference in environmental and social corporate responsibility.”
Lamancusa began his new role on January 16.
Founded in 2013, the PSC serves nearly 200 member companies across the pet industry, helping them to progress on their sustainability practices, set and strive for ambitious goals, and report on their achievements. Additionally the PSC leads retailers, distributors, brands and suppliers in pursuing collaborative solutions to some of the largest industry-wide issues, such as sustainable packaging and ingredient sourcing.
