Pet Sustainability Coalition names new executive director

BOULDER, COLO. — Jim Lamancusa has joined the Pet Sustainability Coalition (PSC) as executive director, effective Jan. 16. In the newly created role, he will work closely with the PSC’s leadership team to lead its big-picture vision, organizational growth and credibility in the pet industry.

Lamancusa offers two decades of strategic leadership experience, as well as sales and marketing know-how, with a “proven track record” of entrepreneurial success, sustainability and new product development, according to the PSC.

Throughout his career, Lamancusa has held several leadership positions with CPG brands, most recently having founded Cusa Tea and Coffee in 2015. Early in his career, he served as one of the first employees at Eco-Products, where he played a crucial role in growing the $1 million brand into a $75 million company over a five-year period.

As executive director of the PSC, Lamancusa will be tasked with fostering innovation and achieving strategic goals set by the organization, in an overall effort to support profitable sustainability practices across the pet industry. This work involves partnering with brands, producers, suppliers, distributors and retailers across the industry to provide resources and assistance toward key environmental and social issues, namely sustainable packaging and responsible ingredient sourcing.

“We are excited to welcome Jim to the PSC family,” said David Yaskulka, chair of the board at the PSC. “His experience and proven leadership in growing sustainability-focused businesses make him the ideal candidate to lead us into the next decade. I know PSC’s members will benefit from working with him, and so will the planet.”

Caitlyn Dudas, former executive director of the PSC, announced her transition to co-founder and senior advisor of the coalition in May 2023, as the group celebrated 10 years in business and prepared for its second decade of impact.

“I’m elated that Jim will lead PSC,” Dudas commented. “He is what our industry needs in this key role.”

Lamancusa will be based in Boulder, where he has lived for the last 26 years. Donald Castellucci, interim executive officer, will return to his position as chief operating officer. Lamancusa will work closely with Castellucci, as well as Erin Haas, director of member services, and Kristen Smith, director of marketing, to drive the PSC into the future.“I am honored to join the Pet Sustainability Coalition and lead this exceptional team,” Lamancusa said. “Taking over the reins from someone as skilled and passionate as Caitlyn Dudas is a humbling responsibility and I feel fortunate to be able to learn from her and this excellent team as we move through a seamless transition. I also can’t wait to dive in to help drive PSC’s continued growth while we make a meaningful difference in environmental and social corporate responsibility.”

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry, and find more articles related to pet industry sustainability here.