It's no surprise people are passionate about the health and happiness of their pet and our Merchandising (buying) team is no different. When it comes to the products and solutions in our stores, our incredible teams of merchandising associates have everything covered – from head to tail! From keeping up with the top trends to developing new, innovative solutions, our buyers help ensure every pet parent can find exactly what their pet needs at PetSmart. Join our team and show your love for pets by creating products as special as pets themselves!

Collaborative Work Environment:
At PetSmart, teamwork and connection are core to how we thrive. This role is based at our Phoenix Home Office, with an expectation of working a minimum of four days in the office each week. In a standard work week, associates may work up to one remote “flex day” (with leader approval). Our hybrid approach is designed to foster strong collaboration while also supporting flexibility and individual success.

This role works in our Phoenix Home Office - please include a link to your portfolio

The Sr Manager Packaging and PDP Digital Design will play a key role in the development of on-strategy design solutions for PetSmart’s proprietary brands packaging and digital. The ideal candidate owns the overall aesthetic expression for the brands they oversee, delivers fresh and forward design concepts, has expertise in developing packaging trade dress and design systems, knows how to push ideas beyond the norm. This individual has a high level of initiative, provides a POV on what is right for the brand and has ability to influence and manage various large-scale projects and deadlines simultaneously in a fast-paced retail environment. Proven ability to deliver effective packaging and layout solutions and experience art directing photoshoots is a must.

This candidate must have excellent creative and organizational skills with the ability to communicate effectively cross functionally and across levels of the organization, as well as with external agencies and vendors. The Sr. Manager Packaging and PDP Digital Design is expected to be able to thrive in ambiguity, while inspiring cross functional teams to deliver results with an overall optimistic and “can do” attitude. This role leads direct reports.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Guided by innovative ideas and fresh thinking; produce effective brand identity and package design systems and concepts that allow for solves from simple PDP information graphics to line extensions and brand/system redesign.
• Deliver engaging presentations that clearly articulate design strategies to various levels in the organization.
• Partner closely with Copy team to develop compelling packaging communication hierarchy that helps the customer navigate to find the right product online or in store.
• Provide clear art direction and creative guidance for Graphic Designers, Package Designers, Photographers, Production team, and other cross-functional partners.
• Understanding of dielines/packaging construction and ability to review physical proofs to ensure what is delivered hits the ask
• Be organized, deliver work on-time, carry responsibility into budgets and cost saving initiatives.
• Communicate packaging direction and process to direct team and cross-functionally with Merchandising, Suppliers, Proprietary Brands and Marketing teams. Provide status updates to key stakeholders on a regular basis and as needed.
• This role is focused on packaging and online product description visuals but will work cross-functionally to contribute to the development of all aspects of proprietary brands like strategy, overall digital presence, advertising, promotions, merchandising and environmental as needed.
• Understanding of how to work with brand architecture with a key focus on a consistency.
• Help ensure Proprietary Brand packaging conforms to U.S. and Canadian packaging regulations, as well as internal brand standards and guidelines.
• Continue professional development by further understanding of business, strategy, design, trend and packaging materials and industry best practices.
• Possess a high degree of ownership and initiative with the ability to focus on details as well as the big picture.
• Hands on when needed. This is a team that handles high volume of projects, must be able to help the team get through more technical tasks when needed.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design or related field and 6+ years direct experience with package and digital design.
• 5+ Years management experience.
• Problem-solving and high-level conceptual skills.
• Effective communication and presentation skills.
• This candidate must be self-motivated, detail-driven, and able to make decisions as needed to keep projects on track.
• Cultivate direct report(s) through continuous feedback, mentorship, setting performance goals, providing clear communication and delivering constructive feedback.
• Have experience in developing design aesthetic, good understanding of typography, color, structure, layout design and composition.
• Proven understanding of art direction: packaging and product photography strategy development, photoshoot planning and execution.
• A passion for packaging solutions and awareness of trends (design, technical, printing technique, etc).
• Technical knowledge of file preparation (flight checks), packaging development milestones, prepress and printing processes.
• Experience with identifying freelance talent and managing agencies.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment on multiple projects.
• Fluent in Adobe Creative Cloud (Illustrator, Photoshop, In-Design).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office including excel, emphasis on Power Point.

• This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and face-to-face interaction with colleagues, leaders, and/or clients.
• Being in the office ensures access to leaders, cross-functional partners, and resources necessary to make timely decisions and drive results.
• On-site presence in accordance with our FlexSmart policy supports our culture of innovation, mentorship, and engagement, which is integral to our success in developing the best team.

* This is not intended to be an all-inclusive, exhaustive list of all essential job functions for this position. PetSmart retains the right to change or assign other required job duties to this position.

At PetSmart, Anything for Pets begins with our people. Every associate plays a vital role in creating meaningful experiences for pets and their families, and we empower our teams with the tools, resources, and opportunities to grow and succeed. 

We’re more than a workplace, we’re Team PetSmart. Together, we grow, collaborate, and challenge ourselves to be the best in all we do. Our culture is built on belonging and shared purpose, where every voice and experience matters. Guided by our values, we strive to do what’s right, lead responsibly, and bring our passion for pets to life every day. Not sure if you meet 100% of the position requirements and whether you should apply? We’d still like to hear from you and encourage you to apply with us! You might be the right fit for this role or another opportunity across Team PetSmart.

Our home office offers outstanding amenities in a fun and rewarding workplace including:

• Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work and enjoy the on-site dog park!
• On-Site Events & Adoptions, enjoy community-building opportunities, including pet adoption days, seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, & holiday festivals
• “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces
• “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options, snacks, & more
• “Lil Paws” NAEYC-accredited onsite childcare facility providing high-quality early education
• Paid Volunteer Opportunities to spend time doing good for causes close to heart
• Print Center and Business Services, Dry Cleaning, Mother's Rooms, Sustainable Infrastructure & more

PetSmart provides an equal opportunity for all associates and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other legally protected characteristics.