Emilie Fontaine is a dynamic leader who turns challenges into opportunities and pushes the boundaries of animal nutrition with ingenuity. A graduate in animal science from McGill University, she began her career in technical support at Jefo, where she quickly recognised the need for a structured marketing approach. She founded Jefo’s marketing department in 2011 and expanded her expertise to regulatory affairs in 2014.
In 2017, she led the strategic reflection behind Jefo’s employer brand, launched in 2018. She was promoted in 2019 to Vice President of Brand and Products, overseeing applied innovation, technical services, and Jefo’s global solutions.
Beyond her corporate role, Emilie is involved in agronomy, education, and the equestrian sector. Always eager to learn, she even trims her horses’ hooves herself. When not leading strategic projects, she enjoys reining and trail riding—disciplines that, like her career, require both precision and boldness.
You have a rich career working in the industry, what initially led you into this field?
Growing up watching the Discovery Channel, I developed a deep fascination with animal ethology and biology, which led me to pursue a degree in animal science at McGill University. I was always surrounded by animals, and after experiencing numerous vet visits with them, I quickly realised that being around sick or injured animals wasn’t for me—so I knew vet school wasn’t the right path.
Early in my career, I worked in technical support for ruminant nutrition, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges producers face and the realities of working as a nutritionist. This experience ignited my passion for innovation, particularly in marketing—how we could improve the transfer of scientific knowledge to our customers. Over time, my role expanded into marketing, regulatory affairs, and ultimately leading Jefo’s brand and product strategy. My journey has been driven by curiosity, a problem-solving mindset, and a commitment to making livestock production more efficient and sustainable.
Will potential trade tariffs and import taxation on products have an impact on the way we supply and use minerals and other feed additives?
Trade regulations and tariffs can significantly impact raw material costs, supply chain efficiency, and the availability of key ingredients. Companies relying on imported feed additives may face higher costs, making diversified ingredient sourcing and strong supplier networks more critical than ever.
For global companies like Jefo, this means continuously developing flexible supply chain strategies and strengthening sourcing capabilities to mitigate risks. It also underscores the importance of innovation in nutrient efficiency—by optimising bioavailability and precision nutrition, we can reduce dependence on certain raw materials while maintaining performance and sustainability.
The company has seven regional offices, from Latin America to Australia, how important is it for anyone working in our business to have an interest in international events and developments?
Understanding global trends is essential in the animal nutrition industry. Feed production is shaped by regional regulations, trade policies, climate conditions, disease outbreaks, and evolving consumer preferences. What works in North America may not be feasible in Latin America, Europe, or Asia due to variations in ingredient availability, production systems, and government regulations.
For professionals in this industry, having a global mindset enables better decision-making, stronger customer relationships, and a proactive approach to challenges such as supply chain disruptions and emerging diseases. Working with international teams has personally allowed me to gain insights into diverse market needs, collaborate on innovative solutions, and help Jefo tailor its strategies to different regions.
However, a global perspective is not just about geography—it also means understanding different production methods and cross-industry innovation. By embracing a broader perspective, we drive innovation and create solutions that enhance animal health, sustainability, and efficiency on a global scale.
What advice would you give a young person looking for a career in our sector?
The animal nutrition industry offers incredible opportunities for those who are curious, adaptable, and eager to solve real-world challenges. My advice is to stay curious and keep learning. Whether it’s nutrition, market trends, or emerging technologies, the field is constantly evolving. Keep questioning, exploring, and expanding your knowledge. It’s also worth gaining hands-on experience. Work with veterinarians and nutritionists—even offering your help for free in exchange for real-world experience. The best lessons come from direct exposure to industry challenges.
I’d also suggest developing a multidisciplinary mindset. Understanding not just nutrition, but also marketing, regulatory affairs, and business strategy will set you apart. Be hungry for knowledge in all aspects of the industry. It’s important to build international awareness, since animal nutrition is a global industry. Understanding different markets, production systems, and regulations will give you a competitive edge. And lastly, find your passion (or obsession). Whether it’s precision nutrition, sustainability, research, or commercial strategy, discover what excites you and become an expert in it.
This industry is a unique blend of science, relationships, and innovation—if you’re passionate about animal health and well-being, you’ll find it an incredibly rewarding career path.
Published in the April 2025 issue of International Petfood
