Compana introduces new team to drive product innovation

ST. LOUIS — Compana Pet Brands announced the launch of its new Technical Center of Excellence team as part of its strategy to drive growth and expand its capabilities. The company has appointed Micah Kohles, DVM, to chief veterinary officer to lead the new team.

“As we continue to build Compana’s position as a global leader in pet care and nutrition, it is essential that we integrate technical expertise into all facets of our business,” Kohles said. “Our Technical Center of Excellence will expand our research capabilities to further ensure that every Compana Pet Brands product is formulated on a foundation of science and nutrition to support pet health and wellbeing.”

The Technical Center of Excellence will focus on scientific research, identifying and vetting novel ingredients, applications and new technologies to support Compana’s continued product innovation. The new team is one of several initiatives led by Compana’s Chief Executive Officer Greg Pearson, who joined the company earlier this year.

“Innovation is a major growth engine for our company, and we must continue to focus our vast and global expertise and resources to attain and sustain best-in-class products for pets and their families,” Pearson said. “Expanding our talented technical team with our new Chief Veterinary Officer Kohles at the helm will enable that growth.”

Kohles originally joined Compana in January 2022, when the company acquired Oxbow Animal Health, as vice president of technical services and research. He owns and currently practices at Woodland Animal Hospital, serves as adjunct professor at the University of Nebraska’s School of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, and is a frequent lecturer at several veterinary schools.

Kohles also serves various industry associations, including the World Pet Association and the Pet Advocacy Network’s Board of Directors.