The Pet Food Institute (PFI), whose members make the vast majority of dog and cat food and treats in the United States, recently welcomed Savonne Caughey as senior director of advocacy and government relations. In this role, Caughey will oversee state legislative and policy-focused activities and represent PFI amongst state governments and stakeholder organizations. She brings more than 20 years of government relations and public affairs experience, and has served in the private, state, and federal legislative sectors.

“Given PFI’s role as the voice of U.S. pet food makers, I am excited to bring my knowledge and experience in animal health to support the mission of long and healthy lives for pets,” said Caughey. “It is a pleasure to join the team and support PFI’s members through state and partner outreach.”

Prior to joining PFI, Caughey was senior director of government affairs at the Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC), where she represented the companion animal trade association before federal, state and local governments and served as liaison with government partners, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), state departments of health and state departments of agriculture.

“Savonne brings a strong skillset and experiences that will make a perfect fit as PFI advocates across the country on behalf of America’s pet food and treat makers,” said Dana Brooks, president and CEO of PFI. “We’re looking forward to leveraging her qualifications and building upon the expertise provided by our association’s talented professional staff.”

Throughout her extensive career, Caughey served in numerous senior leadership roles at the American Heart Association, Herbalife International, Elanco Animal Health and USDA. She earned her bachelor’s degree in justice and political science from American University School of Public Affairs.