Our Real Estate team takes on the task of finding and managing over 1,600 stores, DCs, and offices. Their scope is pretty big, as we are a multi-national retailer with over 1,600 leased stores, offices, and distribution centers in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Hong Kong.  The team also supports new store growth through market analysis and research with the industry’s best data resources and analytical tools.  In addition to supporting the stores, we work directly with the Real Estate Legal, Facilities, New Store Construction, and Finance teams.

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.

We’re looking for a strategic and experienced Senior Manager, Real Estate Development to lead the execution of complex real estate projects across our nationwide portfolio of 1,700+ retail locations. This role is responsible for managing remodels, integrating new veterinary service spaces, navigating landlord-driven site changes, and overseeing renovation activities that support our evolving store formats and customer experience.

This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned real estate development professional who thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment and is passionate about improving the way customers experience our brand.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team in alignment with company values and leadership expectations.
• Manage day-to-day operations, including workload balancing, performance evaluations, and talent development.
• Drive collaboration between Real Estate, Construction, and Design teams to ensure alignment and efficiency.

Project Planning & Due Diligence

• Conduct due diligence and feasibility studies for remodels and site improvements.
• Evaluate environmental, geotechnical, and planning reports to ensure compliance with brand and regulatory standards.
• Guide project teams in delivering cost-effective, scalable design solutions.

Remodel & Renovation Oversight

• Lead all phases of store remodels and renovations—from concept development to design handoff.
• Align project scopes, budgets, and timelines with internal stakeholders and business goals.
• Approve final layouts and fixture plans, ensuring consistency and operational efficiency.

Landlord & Developer Relations

• Serve as the primary liaison with landlords, brokers, and developers.
• Negotiate property improvements and redevelopment criteria in partnership with Legal and Real Estate teams.
• Ensure compliance with zoning, permitting, and municipal requirements.

Tracking, Reporting & Documentation

• Maintain accurate pre-construction schedules, status reports, and key project milestones.
• Provide clear and timely updates to leadership on progress, risks, and capital planning.
• Ensure accuracy of CAD drawings, floor plans, and store maps across internal systems.

Qualifications:

• 7+ years of experience in real estate development, store planning, or construction management, preferably in a multi-site retail environment.
• Strong leadership skills with proven experience managing and mentoring teams.
• Exceptional project management and cross-functional communication skills.
• Ability to interpret technical site data, planning reports, and construction documents.
• Familiarity with CAD systems, store planning software, and permitting processes.
• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Real Estate, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).

• 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.