Our Human Resources team defies all conventional expectations and is a business-connected solutions provider. The work we do directly aligns with the company’s core areas of focus, and we ensure that associates and leaders are ready to support those strategic objectives. Our HR team is comprised of different departments, including Talent Acquisition, HR business partners, Learning & Development, Compensation & Benefits, and Shared Services. We enable meaningful careers for all and build our Associate Workplace Experience!
About the Location
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.
About the Job
Summary
The Sr. HR Business Partner is responsible for executing and operationalizing the HR strategy for the Phoenix Home Office (PHO), translating business priorities into actionable people plans that enable the organization to achieve its strategic objectives. This role serves as the primary HR owner for assigned client groups, providing full-spectrum HR support across talent, organizational effectiveness, and associate experience in partnership with the Director of HR.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
- Serves as the primary HR owner for assigned client groups, accountable for talent, engagement, and organizational effectiveness outcomes
- Executes and operationalizes HR strategy for assigned departments in partnership with the Director of HR, ensuring alignment with broader HR and business priorities
- Leads and executes full-spectrum HR support, including talent and performance management, succession planning, engagement, organizational development, change management, associate relations, and headcount and position management
- Serves as a trusted HR advisor to leaders, providing actionable guidance on talent, organizational effectiveness, and team performance to drive business results
- Leads talent planning for the business and partners with Talent Acquisition to execute hiring strategy and workforce plans
- Identifies opportunities to improve organizational effectiveness and recommends solutions aligned with business priorities
- Identifies and drives leadership development solutions in partnership with Learning and Development to enhance capability and performance
- Owns and leads succession planning processes, including identifying high potential associates, assessing bench strength, and supporting development planning
- Partners with leaders to build internal growth plans and development pathways for associates
- Owns and drives a positive work environment by proactively addressing associate and leadership concerns with appropriate urgency and judgment
- Leads execution of change management efforts within assigned client groups, ensuring effective adoption and minimal disruption
- Leverages data and insights to inform talent decisions, identify trends, and provide actionable recommendations to leaders
- Acts as a connector between business leaders and HR Centers of Excellence to ensure alignment and effective delivery of HR solutions
- Maintains strong partnership with HRIS and IT to ensure data integrity across HR systems
- Supports the broader Offices HR Business Partner team with responsibilities such as position management, headcount tracking, and project work
- Serves as HR project manager for key initiatives or workstreams as needed
Education and/or Experience
Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university and a minimum of 5 years of HR generalist experience in a business or multi-unit retail environment, or an equivalent combination of education and experience
Technical Skills
- Demonstrated business acumen
- Strong problem-solving, analytical, and critical thinking skills
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
- Proven ability to build effective partnerships and trust with internal and external stakeholders
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint
- High level of professional judgment, interpersonal effectiveness, and adaptability
Certificates, Licenses, Registrations
- PHR/SHRM Preferred
Physical Demands and Work Environment
The physical demands and work environment are consistent with those of a typical business office. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Additional Job Considerations
- 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.
About the Culture
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.