Francesca Thomelet

Francesca Thomelet brings more than 35 years of experience to the pet industry. She joined Purdue Farms two and a half years ago and serves on the pet team, where she oversees retail grocery and military accounts with a focus on creating awareness and securing shelf space for human-grade pet food and treats produced in USDA facilities. Prior to this role, she spent just shy of 21 years at Mars Pet Care managing responsibilities across independent pet supply and distributor channels while mentoring team members. She then contributed to the rapid growth of Tyson Pet before its sale and spent three years at General Mills building connections in regional grocery and military markets. Thomelet earned her marketing degree and communications minor from Penn State University after beginning her studies at Duquesne University. Throughout her career she has received sales awards and recent recognition from her Purdue team for resilience and teamwork. She currently serves on the board of her homeowners association.