Leah Lambrakis
Vice President, Research & Development and Innovation
Simmons Pet Food, Inc.
Leah Lambrakis is a University of Guelph Alumna, focusing her studies in the fields of Animal Science and Animal Nutrition. During her graduate studies, Leah held a position at the Toronto Zoo, working as a Nutrition Research Assistant. Her research included the nutritional evaluation of captive diets for several exotic species, as well as assisting in the diet management for species in reintroduction programs. In 1999, Leah moved into the field of Companion Animal Nutrition at Menu Foods Limited, now owned by Simmons Pet Food. Throughout her career, Leah has formulated and launched over 1000 pet food products in market, across Private Brands, Pet Specialty, Organic and Veterinary platforms. During her journey in product development, Leah gained a broad level of knowledge and experience in pet food processing, manufacturing, ingredient functionality, and food science. Today, Leah holds the position of Vice President, Research & Development and Innovation at Simmons Pet Food, leading a team of 23 scientists across Simmons Pet Food's wet, dry, and treat divisions. Leah has a passion for innovation, nutrition, health & wellness and consumer insights.