The posting
About the Team
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
The Principal Human Resources Business Partner is a strategic business partner to executive and senior leadership at the PetSmart corporate office in Phoenix, Arizona. This position is a proactive, solution-oriented HR leader focused on driving value to the business. This value will be built on creating a foundation that factors in elements of talent management, leadership development, change management, organizational design, and creating business cases for organizational initiatives and projects. This position is a champion and role model of a positive, diverse, and inclusive culture.
The currently open Principal Human Resources Business Partner is the strategic partner to the Chief Technology Officer and the Technology organization, including responsibility for Technology associates at the Phoenix and Costa Rica Home Offices
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provides strategic HR support to multiple business units at the Home Office. Functions as key business partner with an emphasis in talent and Human Resources.
- Partners closely with EVPs, SVPs, and VPs within the organizational unit to develop and execute critical business and organizational strategies.
- Provides leadership, guidance, and counsel to all levels on matters related to talent, culture, engagement, development, associate relations, and organizational change.
- Champions and promotes a culture of PetSmart’s values, positive impact, recognition, inclusion and the associate value proposition offered.
- Assesses HR implications of the business strategy, identifies opportunities to further meet business needs, and designs solutions.
- Develops and executes HR plans, processes, and programs aligned with business objectives, including organizational design, succession planning, talent management/acquisition, goal alignment, associate engagement and communications.
- Provides guidance to leadership on talent management/development and succession planning to ensure the right talent capabilities and bench strength are developed to support the business.
- Uses relevant data shared insights and develop recommendations, creates business cases and develops strategic HR programs.
- Coaches and advises on appropriate strategies, programs, and tools to enhance organizational performance and associate engagement.
- Collaborates with other HR partners in the centers of expertise to share best practices, facilitate process improvements, and apply sufficient HR resources to meet the business initiatives.
- Investigates and provides counsel on associate relations often in partnership with the business and Legal and makes appropriate recommendations.
EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor's degree in Business or related field from a four-year college or university preferred.
- Minimum of 7 - 10 years of experience supporting executive-level clients in an HR generalist capacity.
- An equivalent combination of education and experience may substitute for the minimum qualifications.
- HR certification preferred such as SHRM CP, SHRM SCP, PHR, SPHR, GPHR.
- Technology and/or Global client experience preferred.
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
- Yes; directly leads HR associates.
TECHNICAL SKILLS
- Demonstrated experience in business partnership.
- Demonstrated strategic thinking and delivery with proven, measurable results.
- Strong talent management, leadership development, performance management, and organization development experience.
- Must be able to prioritize multiple, conflicting priorities with a proactive approach and enterprise focus.
- Demonstrated success in creating an environment of trust with clients where integrity is unquestioned; can effectively utilize conflict resolution skills when needed.
- Ability to analyze data for use in developing goals and driving key business strategies and objectives.
- Excellent interpersonal, influencing, and communications skills with all levels required.
- Maintains knowledge of industry trends including employment legislation and compliance.
- Proficiency in using Microsoft software: Excel, Word, PowerPoint.
PHYSICAL DEMANDS and WORK ENVIRONMENT
The physical demands and work environment are characteristic of those found in a typical office environment. This role requires up to 15% travel, including international travel. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable those 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
Our associates are the heart of Team PetSmart. Together, we’re building the best team in retail through our values-based culture, connection, and teamwork. Our goal is to create a culture where associates learn and grow together, thrive as effective teams and challenge each other to be the best they can be.
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.



