2026 Speakers

As the leader of Hill’s Product Design team, Melissa Vanchina is responsible for the strategic vision of global programs. These programs are focused on delivering exceptional taste performance while ensuring Hill's clinical efficacy across all product lines. The core mission of her team is to identify, develop and apply breakthrough solutions that consistently meet the high standards of pets and pet parents. With over 16 years of experience at Hill's, Vanchina has been instrumental in driving fundamental research, new method development, and cross-functional collaboration, which has led to technical performance and product superiority. Notably, she spearheaded the development of the patented E.A.T. (Enhanced Appetite Trigger) technology used in Prescription Diet k/d and led the development of Prescription Diet Onc Care portfolio. Vanchina holds a master's degree in food science from the University of Georgia.