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, PSC said. Known for his strategic vision, with a deep focus on sales and marketing, his commitment to excellence will help guide PSC through its next phase of growth and innovation.
Lamancusa brings 20 years of expertise as a champion of high-growth businesses committed to sustainability. As one of 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 in April.
“We are excited to welcome Jim to the PSC family,” said David Yaskulka, chairman of PSC’s board of directors. “I know PSC 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 perfect candidate to lead us into the next decade.”
PSC’s cofounder and first executive director, Caitlyn Dudas, will remain with the organization as a senior advisor. The interim executive director, Donald Castellucci, remains COO. Director of member services, Erin Haas, and director of marketing, Kristen Smith, round out the existing leadership team that reports to Lamancusa.
Lamancusa joins the organization at a time of strong growth, innovation, and recognition in the industry, the association said. The coalition partners with brands, producers, manufacturers, suppliers, distributors and retailers, creating roadmaps for the company’s journey towards 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 the industry level, the PSC convenes experts to help the industry tackle some of the most important 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 important work, focusing on organizational growth and deepening PSC’s credibility in the industry. PSC noted that his leadership will drive PSC towards achieving its strategic goals, fostering innovation and sustaining the organization’s commitment to business advancement 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 learn from her and this great team as we go through a seamless transition,” said Lamancusa. “I can too’ Wait to dive in to help drive PSC’s continued growth as we make a meaningful difference in environmental and corporate social responsibility.”
Lamancusa began his new role on January 16.
Founded in 2013, PSC serves nearly 200 member companies across the pet industry, helping them improve their sustainability practices, set and strive for ambitious goals, and report on their accomplishments. Additionally, PSC leads retailers, distributors, brands, and suppliers in pursuing collaborative solutions to some of the biggest industry-wide issues, such as sustainable packaging and ingredient sourcing.
