Information provided by the Pet Food Institute.
Robert “Bob” Kelly recently retired from the pet food industry after nearly five decades of dedicated leadership and service. As the longtime president, CEO and owner of Bil-Jac Foods, Kelly played a significant role in both the company’s growth and was a leader in the broader U.S. pet food industry, leaving behind a record defined by stewardship, product quality and industry engagement.
As the owner of Bil-Jac Foods, Kelly prided himself on being deeply involved in every aspect of the business. He learned about the pet sector from his father, Bill Kelly, and family friend Paul Iams — who both did it all, from procuring ingredients and formulating products to stepping into the manufacturing plant and then then flying out to meet with customers. That hands-on approach remained central to Kelly's leadership style, and he was known for his sharp attention to detail.
“Like father… like son” was more than a phrase. Kelly upheld his dad’s unwavering commitment to crafting the most nutritious dog food possible. Like Bill, Kelly's mission was never to make the most popular brand — only the best one. Bil-Jac uses fresh chicken, premium ingredients, and a gentle manufacturing process that preserves nutrients.
Kelly started with Bil-Jac in 1978, and, during his tenure, the company expanded its product portfolio to cover a broader range of canine needs. New offerings included Sensitive Solutions, Bil-Jac Wet Dog Food, and Bil-Jac Picky No More, developed for dogs with selective eating habits. These products reflected Kelly's belief that nutrition should be tailored to individual dogs and supported by consumer feedback.
In addition to his role at Bil-Jac, Kelly was an active leader across the industry, lending his wealth of knowledge and experience. He served as chairman of the Pet Food Institute (PFI)’s board of directors from 2009-2011, working collaboratively with pet food company leaders to address key issues affecting the entire sector.
“In his roles as president, CEO, and owner of Bil-Jac, as well as chairman of PFI’s board of directors, Bob Kelly made an indelible mark on the pet food industry," said Dana Brooks, PFI’s president and CEO. "As chair of PFI’s board, Bob was known for taking the time to personally introduce himself and build relationships with every member he encountered. His steady guidance helped usher PFI and the industry into a new era with the development of the Food Safety Modernization Act. There is no doubt that our industry is stronger because of Bob’s leadership and dedication.”
Kelly also remained engaged in community service throughout his career. In Ohio, he served on the Highland School Board for 25 years and as a Granger Township Trustee for 16 years. He supported the district in meaningful ways, including Bil-Jac’s sponsorship of the new Highland football stadium. His contributions enriched student life and strengthened community pride.
That same spirit of service extended to the Eastern Shore community in Berlin, Maryland, which was the location of one of Bil-Jac’s plants. Under Kelly, the company donated to Atlantic General Hospital for 17 consecutive years, a remarkable record of long-term support, helping enable the hospital to provide essential care to local families.
From Ohio to Maryland, from industry boardrooms to dog food bowls around the globe, Kelly’s legacy is one of humility, integrity, generosity, and deep respect for people and pets alike. His influence lives on through the company he stewarded, the dedicated team who worked with him, the communities he supported, and the many pet-loving families who benefited from his unwavering dedication to quality.
Brooks added: “PFI thanks Bob Kelly for his continued support and leadership. We wish him the best in retirement. I want to thank Bob for welcoming me into the industry and always calling to ask questions, educating me, and then thanking me for caring.”
