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.
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
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).
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 optionsOn-site coffee bar“Lil’ Paws” learning center and onsite daycare facility (associate paid)Volunteer events with PetSmart CharitiesLearn 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 GuidePetSmart 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.