STAMFORD, Conn. — Julia Fidenzio was promoted to VP of government affairs and general counsel with the American Pet Products Association (APPA) May 9, after working with the organization for 14 years. Fidenzio succeeds Ed Rod, who is retiring.

In her new role, Fidenzio will oversee all legal, regulatory and legislative initiatives and activities, as well as track new developments in state and federal laws which impact APPA members and the overall pet industry. She will be responsible for sharing educational content, initiating cooperative efforts with other groups and organizations, and advocating members’ concerns to government leaders.

“On behalf of the American Pet Products Association, I am proud to congratulate Julia on her well-earned advancement within The Association,” said APPA CEO Steve King. “She is a talented attorney and I am delighted that she has agreed to take on additional responsibility as general counsel.”

Fidenzio previously served as senior counsel and director of industry relations for APPA. She is a member of the American Bar Association and NY Bar Association, and licensed to practice law in New York, as well as France.

Currently residing in Westchester, New York, Fidenzio received a Master of Law degree from Boston University School of Law, along with joint postgraduate diplomas of advanced specialized studies in international law and business legal counsel from Montpellier University School of Law. She also earned her master’s in business law from the University Paris XI School of Law.

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.