Hill's Pet Nutrition, a division of Colgate-Palmolive, promoted Rauf Gurbuz to U.S. president and general manager. Gurbuz succeeds Yvonne Hsu, who was recently named president of Hill's Pet Nutrition.
"We are delighted to welcome Rauf Gurbuz to Hill's Pet Nutrition," said Hsu. "His understanding of diverse markets and ability to drive growth will be invaluable as we continue our mission to transform the lives of pets and their families through science-led nutrition and innovation."
Gurbuz will lead the Hill's U.S. business, focusing on the company's strategic vision for growth and innovation. He will work to accelerate Hill's position in the wellness and therapeutic pet food categories and strengthen support for the veterinary profession.
Gurbuz brings more than 20 years of experience within Colgate-Palmolive, most recently serving as senior vice president and general manager, Greater Indochina Hub, Asia Pacific Division. In that role, his team executed a commercial transformation that revitalized organic sales and market share growth across various markets and categories.
Gurbuz began his career with CP-Turkiye in 2004, working through roles in general management and customer development. During his tenure, he led global initiatives for profitability and guided teams to increased sales, profit and market share.
"I am honored and energized to lead the Hill's U.S. team," said Gurbuz. "My career at Colgate-Palmolive has been defined by a passion for building brands that make a tangible impact, and I am excited to bring that dedication to Hill's and our powerful mission to help enrich and lengthen the special relationships between people and their pets. I look forward to working with our dedicated teams to strengthen our leadership position and shape the future of pet nutrition."
Gurbuz holds a bachelor of science degree in mechanical engineering from Boğaziçi University in Istanbul.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies listing, Hill's Pet Nutrition sells more than 300 products, principally through authorized pet supply retailers and veterinarians in more than 80 countries worldwide. Hill's operates major manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Bowling Green, Kentucky; Topeka, Kansas; Emporia, Kansas; and Richmond, Indiana, U.S. Its primary research center is located in Topeka. Hill's also runs major manufacturing and warehousing facilities in the Czech Republic and the Netherlands.
