Editor-in-Chief to Retire From Petfood Industry in 2026
Debbie Phillips-Donaldson will step down from her role at the pet-nutrition publication this December.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Pets — General
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After a two-decade tenure, Petfood Industry editor-in-chief Debbie Phillips-Donaldson will retire on December 28, 2026. A transition process is currently underway to prepare for her successor, Jackie Roembke.
Why it matters
The transition represents a significant change in leadership for the industry-leading publication that pet owners and professionals rely on for information. The shift ensures continuity in editorial coverage as the company moves to a new content lead.
Debbie Phillips-Donaldson will conclude her 20-year career at the publication on December 28, 2026. Her successor, Jackie Roembke, brings more than two decades of journalism experience to the role.
The players
Debbie Phillips-Donaldson
The outgoing editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry who has spent two decades overseeing pet nutrition content.
Jackie Roembke
The incoming editor-in-chief of Petfood Industry who has been with WATT Global Media since 2013.
WATT Global Media
The parent organization that manages pet nutrition and feed-focused trade publications.
Elise Schafer
The current director of content for the Feed Strategy brand.
The details
The magazine is currently conducting a formal transition process between Phillips-Donaldson and Roembke. While the leadership changes, Elise Schafer has already assumed the responsibility of directing content for the Feed Strategy brand as part of the broader corporate restructuring at parent company WATT Global Media.
Timeline
2006: Phillips-Donaldson joined WATT Global Media.
2013: Roembke began her tenure with WATT Global Media.
December 28, 2026: Phillips-Donaldson will officially retire.
The Home Front
The leadership change at Petfood Industry concludes a two-decade era of editorial direction for the outlet. This transition follows the established pattern of long-term succession planning within parent company WATT Global Media.
Readers who rely on Petfood Industry for pet nutrition guidance should expect consistent coverage throughout the upcoming transition period. You may notice editorial adjustments as the team integrates new leadership through the end of 2026.
The takeaway
Leadership changes at industry publications often precede shifts in editorial focus or reporting priorities. Readers should keep an eye on upcoming editions to see how the new editorial team may update content standards or coverage areas for pet food safety and nutrition.
What happens next
The official transition of duties will occur on December 28, 2026, when Debbie Phillips-Donaldson retires.
Further reading
Learn more about the news impacting your animal companions in the Pets — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Petfood Industry Community.
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