About the Team 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! About the Location Collaborative & Flexible Work Environment: We believe in fostering growth, teamwork and creativity in a dynamic workplace. This role is based at PetSmart’s Phoenix Home Office, where associates currently enjoy the benefits of in-person collaboration while having the flexibility to work remotely one day per week (a “flex workday” with leader approval), and an expected four days in the office. At PetSmart, you’ll be part of an engaging and supportive environment designed to help you and our teams thrive. About the Job Director, Proprietary Brands SUMMARY PetSmart’s proprietary brand team is responsible for creating a range of differentiated brands and products. The Director is responsible for the management of the existing brand portfolio of products and new product development. This position is responsible for overseeing PetSmart’s proprietary brands within the Hardgoods division with the goal of increasing sales, expanding margin and improving customer loyalty. This role is responsible for brands across Dog and Cat apparel, beds, feeding, collars & leads, furniture & scratch, toys, waste management, containment, travel, flea & tick and supplements. As a leader of the team, you will oversee and lead a team of brand development professionals that work cross-functionally with the merchandising, design, sourcing and quality organizations to deliver a compelling assortment. You will have a high level of curiosity towards the customer and their needs to best drive product development. This role will ensure brands are actively managed within a set of predetermined guard rails and take maximum advantage of trends to drive new product development. SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES The Director, Proprietary Brands will report to the Vice President, Proprietary Brands. Directly supervises a team of associates. ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to: Provides overall direction of strategic initiatives by influencing and collaborating with cross functional teams; gathering knowledge from relevant sources; analyzing the potential return on investment; developing assessments of key opportunities; documenting project scopes; developing long-range plans and project timelines; and providing updates and progress reports to senior leaders. Develops long term brand strategy and vision including a pipeline of initiatives and relevant product lines. Leverages category architectures to ensure that each brand has a distinct position and role within the category. Responsible for product creation, development and commercialization. Collaborates with internal and external partners to determine product needs and determines resource allocation for product development In collaboration with the packaging and digital teams, owns the execution of the digital product display page (PDP) strategy to ensure seamless, accurate and compelling shopping experience Responsible for ensuring all product packaging aligns with brand standards and captures key features and benefits Drive, manage and lead multiple projects and processes, ensuring successful new product launches, on time and within budget Identifies white space opportunities within assigned categories, inclusive of consumer needs and insight mining Proven ability to develop and execute strategic initiatives Directs a high performing, customer centric team. Selects, coaches, motivates, conducts performance evaluations, and identifies development and growth opportunities. Develops associates through coaching, mentoring, performance management, talent management and succession planning. Proven problem-solver with excellent written and verbal communication skills and attention to detail. EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE Requires proficiency typically obtained with 15+ years’ experience including 10+ years demonstrated leadership in retail private brands, merchandising and/or buying. Requires a creative and strategic results-oriented leader with proven strategic thinking, planning and analytical skills. Must have a deep understanding of retail from a business perspective and a thorough understanding of global sourcing. Must have integrity and be dedicated to the principles of developing an effective collaborative team-based organization. Superior financial and business acumen is essential. A proven management presence is necessary. Other attributes include: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal. Action-orientation and a result driven mindset Possess the ability to connect with the merchandising organization and be able to convert opportunities into practical business strategies. A proven leader with self-confidence, and a solid track record of accomplishments in challenging and highly matrixed environments. Demonstrated ability to lead an organization through growth or transitions without losing momentum or focus on key business drivers. Effective communicator who understands the importance of leadership through consensus, and who values and is good at partnering and relationship building. Good listening skills and ability to be effective in working with all levels of the organization. Position requires some travel (up to 25%). TECHNICAL SKILLS Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Teams, etc.) Knowledge of CBX, Workfront helpful. CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS None required PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT The physical demands and work environment are characteristic of those found in a typical office environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable those with disabilities to perform essential functions. About the Culture At PetSmart, we work hard to create a culture where every associate feels like they truly belong and we celebrate the unique stories, backgrounds, and experiences our associates share. These experiences not only bring new perspectives in shaping our Belonging culture but they’re core to PetSmart’s success. 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 just may be the ideal candidate for this role, and if not this one, perhaps another position. Our home office offers outstanding amenities in a fun and rewarding workplace including: Pet friendly environment, bring your pets to work! On-site Dog Park “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists and personal trainers “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options On-site coffee bar “Lil’ Paws” learning center and onsite daycare facility (associate paid) Volunteer events with PetSmart Charities Learn more about #LifeAtPetSmart here: https://www.lifeatpetsmart.com/life-at-petsmart/ Check out Associate stories and share in some celebrations at PetSmart: https://www.blog.lifeatpetsmart.com/ Explore PetSmart Benefits here: https://benefits.petsmart.com/ If you don't already live in the Phoenix area here's a guide to the area: Welcome to Phoenix Guide 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.