FRANLKIN, TENN. — Mars Petcare announced Aug. 27 that Ikdeep Singh will join the company as regional president of Mars Pet Nutrition North America, effective Aug. 31. Singh will be trained in the position until January 2021, at which point he will take full responsibility of the role, Mars said.

Singh brings more than 20 years of global consumer goods experience and is described by Mars Petcare as a “seasoned senior executive,” as well as “a purpose-driven leader” with a promising track record of delivering sustained financial growth.

Most recently, Singh served as president of L’Oréal Group for six years, where he led the company’s portfolio of North American brands. He worked for Proctor and Gamble in various roles for 14 years before joining L’Oréal.

In his new role with Mars Petcare, he will manage the division’s entire North American brand portfolio, including trademark brands such as Pedigree, Sheba and Iams.

"I'm energized by this growing, dynamic category and to join a company that puts purpose at the center of what they do," Singh said. "I've personally experienced the many benefits pets bring to our lives and I'm inspired by the opportunity to make a positive impact for pets and pet parents."

Singh will succeed Mark Johnson, who has served as regional president of Mars Pet Nutrition North America for the last six years. Johnson will remain with Mars in a different role. Singh will work with Johnson to learn the ropes of his new position before fully transitioning at the beginning of 2021.

"It has been an absolute privilege to lead the North American Pet Nutrition business for the last six years," Johnson commented. "I'm so proud of our incredibly talented Associates and all we've been able to accomplish together to further our purpose: a better world for pets."

Read more about personnel changes throughout the industry.