Parnell appoints Sharon Holt as US pet care vice-president to expand veterinary market presence

Parnell has appointed Sharon Holt as vice-president of US Pet Care as it continues to expand its companion animal business. Holt brings more than 20 years of animal-health experience at Merial and Boehringer Ingelheim and will lead commercial strategy, customer engagement and growth initiatives in the US.

Parnell has named Sharon Holt vice-president of US pet care as it pushes deeper into the companion animal market and seeks to widen its commercial reach with veterinarians. The appointment signals a sharper focus on customer engagement and operational scale in a segment where established animal health groups are competing to defend margin while expanding product breadth.

According to Parnell’s announcement, Holt brings more than 20 years in animal health, including leadership roles at Merial and, after its 2017 takeover, Boehringer Ingelheim. The company said she has worked across sales, marketing, supply chain, commercial operations and business development.

In her new role, Holt will oversee commercial strategy, organisational development and growth initiatives for the US business. Parnell said her remit also includes improving access to solutions for veterinary professionals and the animals they treat.

Pablo Lamberto, Parnell’s US general manager, said in the company’s statement that Holt has a record of “delivering results” and building teams, and that her experience in companion animals and innovation made her a strong addition to the leadership group.

The move comes as Parnell broadens its US pet care portfolio beyond anaesthesia-related products. It also offers an online Foundations of Anesthesia & Sedation Veterinary Certificate, which provides 10 RACE-approved continuing education hours, a reminder that education and product sales are increasingly linked in veterinary commercial strategy.