UK Pet Food marks the end of one era and a transition to the next, as Michael Bellingham steps down as CEO after 22 years. Nicole Paley. previously Deputy CEO, who has been with the trade association since 2003, has taken up the role of CEO.
Michael joined what was then called the Pet Food Manufacturers' Association, in April 2004, when it represented approximately 30-40 members. Today, UK Pet Food represents 108 members, including a growing community of associate members, reflecting its expanding reach and influence across the pet food sector.
During his tenure, Michael has guided the association through significant moments, including the UK's departure from the European Union and the COVID-19 pandemic, while simultaneously championing collaboration, growth and the interests of an ever more diverse range of members.
Key milestones under Michael’s leadership include: the establishment of a dedicated Raw Pet Food group, helping to pioneer best practice in safety and standards across Europe; the rebrand from PFMA to UK Pet Food in 2023; and the development and launch of the Association's Sustainability Ambition in 2025.
Beyond this, Michael is widely respected for his knowledge, dedication and passion for the industry, as well as the strong relationships he has built with members, government, regulators and wider stakeholders, over more than two decades.
Matt Elliott, Chair of UK Pet Food and Regulatory Affairs Manager at Mars, said:
"Michael’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in the ongoing growth and success of UK Pet Food, for over two decades now.
“His tireless dedication to supporting a thriving industry, championing the highest standards of pet food safety and his genuine passion for pets and the important role they play in people’s lives, means that Michael will leave a powerful and lasting legacy.”
Michael will remain with UK Pet Food as a Senior Advisor until March 2027, contributing his experience and expertise to specific projects and supporting continuity during the leadership transition.
Nicole Paley said: "I’m incredibly proud to be taking on this role and building on the strong foundations Michael has established. We have a clear strategy, a fantastic team and an engaged membership. My focus will be on turning our ambitions into progress, strengthening our voice and ensuring UK Pet Food continues to deliver real value for its members and the wider community.
“Having worked alongside Michael for many years now, as both a colleague and a friend, I know first-hand the dedication and care he has brought to this role and I’m delighted that we'll continue to benefit from his expertise over the coming months."
Looking ahead, under Nicole’s leadership, UK Pet Food will continue to deliver its strategic priorities across nutrition, safety and standards, and sustainability, while strengthening its engagement with policy makers, regulators and other stakeholders.
The association will continue to build on its role as a trusted, science-led voice for the pet food industry, with a particular focus on tackling misinformation and helping pet owners navigate clear, credible and accessible nutritional information.
This includes building on UK Pet Food’s Love Them Madly, Feed Them Wisely campaign, which aims to cut through misleading information about pet food and promote evidence-based, engaging and consumer friendly language to promote better understanding of pet nutrition.
Michael Bellingham said: "It's been an enormous privilege to lead this association for the past 22 years, and to work alongside so many dedicated and passionate people across our industry.
“I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved together, particularly the way that the PFMA, and latterly UK Pet Food, has grown and evolved while remaining focused on supporting our members and championing high standards.
"I know I leave this fantastic organisation in excellent hands with Nicole and the team and I look forward to seeing UK Pet Food continue to go from strength-to-strength."
The leadership transition comes alongside further changes to the UK Pet Food team, including the recent appointment of Charlotte Dixon as Head of Communications and External Relations.
Charlotte brings extensive communications experience and significant knowledge of the pet food industry, having previously chaired UK Pet Food's Communications Committee for several years. Her appointment strengthens the team, positioning UK Pet Food well to deliver its strategic priorities and build on its engagement with members and wider stakeholders.
