Alphia announces CEO transition

Miguel Nistal, interim CEO and presidentAlphiaAlphia has appointed Miguel Nistal as interim CEO following the retirement of founder David McLain from the chief executive position. McLain, who the cmpany noted built Alphia into one of North America's largest pet food manufacturers, will remain on the company's board of directors to advise on mergers and acquisitions strategy. The leadership transition took effect immediately.

Nistal, who previously served on Alphia's board, brings over 25 years of consumer and industrial sector experience to the role. He currently works as a senior advisor at PAI Partners, where he counsels consumer portfolio companies on operational improvements.

His executive background includes CEO roles at Woodstream Corp., Swan Products, and Keys Fitness, plus nearly 11 years at Stanley, Black & Decker, where he most recently led the Hardware division as president.

"Founding and leading Alphia has been the highlight of my career," McLain said. "Together, the Alphia team has built a resilient and innovative company that helps our partners deliver safe, delicious options to pet families across the country. I look forward to working with Miguel and the rest of the Board to support Alphia's continued expansion during this exciting next phase of growth."

Company continues expanding manufacturing footprint

The leadership change comes as Alphia continues expanding its manufacturing footprint. Under McLain's direction, the company completed the merger of C.J. Foods and American Nutrition, secured investment from PAI Partners, and recently acquired a manufacturing facility in Pittsburg, Texas, U.S.

"Dave created the Alphia we know today through the successful merger of C.J. Foods and American Nutrition, PAI Partners' investment in Alphia, and the recent acquisition of our Pittsburg manufacturing facility," said Enderson Guimaraes, chairman of the board. "On behalf of the entire Alphia board, we are thankful for his leadership and grateful that he will continue to support Alphia's strategic growth through his continued role on our board."

PAI Partners, Alphia's private equity backer, expressed confidence in the interim appointment. "We would like to thank Dave for his leadership and service in building the Alphia platform," said Winston Song, partner at PAI Partners. "We're excited to welcome Miguel to Alphia. He brings extensive experience driving commercial and operational excellence initiatives and growing successful partnerships with customers. We are confident that his experience, coupled with his keen understanding of Alphia's strategy and culture from his time on the Board, makes him the right choice to guide us through this interim period."

Nistal emphasized continuity in the company's approach to customer relationships and product development. "I have long admired Alphia's deep commitment to customer service, innovative solutions, and its people-focused culture," he said. "Alphia has a solid foundation, and I look forward to working with our talented team to continue delivering exceptional value to our customers and partners."

According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies, Alphia works with pet food brands as a co-manufacturer and retailers looking to develop, revise or expand their pet food brands. Alphia can produce dry dog and cat food, dog treats, canned dog and cat food and pet bird food. It has the capacity to manufacture more than 1 billion pounds of pet food and treats annually.