Jibran Malek

Jibran Malek is the Director of Partnerships at Smalls, a direct-to-consumer e-commerce startup specializing in human-grade cat food. He has been in this role since February 2021 and is focused on disrupting the traditional pet food industry by offering high-quality, preservative-free feline cuisine. Smalls aims to compete with established brands like Purina and Meow Mix by providing fresh, nutritious options that cater to the dietary needs of cats.14

Malek graduated from Suffolk University in 2014 and was recognized as one of the university's "10 Under 10" alumni honorees in 2015. Initially pursuing a law degree, he shifted his career towards startups after engaging with organizations that focus on social mobility and economic inequality. His early experiences included internships that evolved into full-time roles, particularly in marketing and social media.12

At Smalls, Malek has been instrumental in establishing partnerships with various animal nonprofits to provide free cat food to new pet owners, especially during the pandemic when pet adoptions surged. His passion for animal welfare drives his work, allowing him to combine his professional ambitions with his love for animals.13