Stefano Pettinella

Sent to Europe as an Expat to serve as a change agent and to stem decline in volume/net sales and share due to key competitor outperforming Hill’s on its core strengths. Accountable for 153 million lbs., $269 million net sales, 5.8% volume share, and 8.7% value share. Tirelessly work to focus the organization and align scarce R&D resources on establishing strong new product grid with innovation push of 30+ products. Manage 4 direct reports.

Directed marketing activities and programs to reignite growth momentum, improve brand health, gain market share and achieve competitive differentiation. Managed, motivated and led 8 direct reports that were inspired, energized, and empowered to achieve goals despite challenges with short resources. Accountable for 585 million lbs., $658 million net sales, and 19.7% volume share.

Systematically built Science Diet® wellness brand in the veterinary channel to an all-time high ($100 million; market share 68+%) and increasing “Brand Recommended Most Often” by Veterinarians KPI. Developed new and/or improved pet acquisition programs. Established 2+ million first time users annually, created online/offline direct-to-consumer and CRM programs, and generated new business. Supervised 5 direct reports and 5 agencies. Oversaw $20 million budget.

Led brand management, new business development and direct marketing initiatives for Hill’s Pet Nutrition. Drove new business initiatives via strategic alliance and co-marketing partnerships. Initiated process within Hill’s to recognize importance of emphasizing philanthropy and social concerns as differentiating proposition for corporate and brand image. Directed activities that improved loyalty of consumers and migrated them to higher margin products. Managed 3 direct reports and $8 million budget.

Managed new product commercialization and Science Diet® packaging in the U.S. Directed cross-functional teams in managing product launches and major upgrades under tight deadline schedules. Managed $2.5 million budget.

Promoted to provide product management and develop new products for key toy categories representing $50M in sales. Selected for company’s Global Leadership Development Program while serving as Assistant Product Manager.

Selected for prestigious International Trainee Program and achieved 2 promotions in 4 years. Assigned to 6 branches for special corporate banking projects. Assisted in retail and investment banking activities in East Germany after German unification. Trained/supervised staff.

Assistant to the Directorate General for Research. Conducted various analyses.