PIJAC Hires New Director of Government Affairs

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The Pet Industry Joint Advisory Council (PIJAC) announced that former U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Senior Advisor Savonne Caughey has been hired as PIJAC’s new director of Government Affairs.

“We’re excited to bring on a seasoned professional for PIJAC’s federal and state advocacy efforts on behalf of pet care professionals,” PIJAC President Mike Bober said. “Savonne’s broad experience at the top levels of the corporate, government and nonprofit sectors will be a valuable asset to PIJAC’s members and the nation’s companion animal owners.”

Caughey comes to PIJAC with nearly two decades of high-level government relations and public affairs experience at leading organizations such as American Heart Association, the USDA and Elanco Animal Health. In her new role, Caughey will represent PIJAC on a wide range of issues before federal, state and local governments. She will provide key leadership for the industry on regulatory matters and assist industry members in communicating with lawmakers.

“I am thrilled to join the stellar team at PIJAC and work directly with those who care for animal health,” Caughey said. “At the American Heart Association, I served as a senior director on the Southwest Affiliate Advocacy Team. I look forward to taking that experience and applying it to all 50 states with PIJAC.”

In addition to her advocacy duties, Caughey will spearhead PIJAC’s leadership on animal disease prevention.

“I am especially pleased to be able to put my USDA and animal health backgrounds to work as the PIJAC Zoonosis Committee’s staff liaison,” she said.

PIJAC Vice President of Government Affairs Robert Likins said Caughey will add depth to PIJAC’s legislative staff.

“I could not be more pleased to have Savonne join our team,” Likins said. “Bringing her on board gives those who care for and about companion animals a larger role in crafting policy to help healthy pets get to loving homes.”