Sr. Manager Positive Associate Relations

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!

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.

Overview

The Sr. Manager, Positive Associate Relations is a key leader responsible for protecting the workplace environment across stores, field leadership, distribution centers, and the home office. This role leads a team of Associate Relations Managers, providing expert consultative and investigatory support, and partners with business leaders to proactively address root-cause concerns, mitigate risk, and foster an environment where associates feel heard, respected, and engaged. The Sr. Manager supports the Director in implementing strategic initiatives, training programs, and continuous improvement efforts grounded in PetSmart’s Values in Action.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop a team of Associate Relations Managers, ensuring high performance and professional growth.
• Provide day-to-day direction and operational excellence, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Support department capability building and process efficiencies; participate in HR initiatives as required.

Consultative Support & Investigations

• Oversee complex and impartial investigations, including compliance and high-risk associate relations issues.
• As subject matter expert, provide expert guidance to the team and business partners on associate relations matters, ensuring resolutions align with company policies and mitigate risk.
• Consult with business leaders and HR Business Partners on sensitive issues impacting the work environment; recommend solutions and drive resolution.

Training & Program Implementation

• Organize and facilitate Positive Associate Relations training strategies for business leaders, HRBPs, and key partners, covering topics like effective leadership, labor and employment law compliance, third-party avoidance techniques.

Business Alignment Strategic Initiatives

• Build and maintain cross-functional and multi-level relationships with HR, business leaders, and internal partners.
• Identify opportunities to better align business processes for improved associate experience. Demonstrate a growth mindset, leading projects and initiatives that proactively addresses associate relations needs.
• Consult and influence comprehensive HR policies, procedures, and objectives centered in company values.
• Utilize reporting and listening tools to assess ongoing risk and vulnerability, identifying and helping to resolve root-cause issues.
• Stay current on employee and labor relations trends, legal decisions, and statutory changes; synthesize impact to programs and policies.

Other Responsibilities

• Assume responsibility for the department in the absence of the Director.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Thorough understanding of human resources and associate relations principles, practices, and procedures.
• Ability to compile, research, and analyze complex information, presenting findings in a compelling and digestible format.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills, including familiarity with legal and regulatory language.
• Strong critical thinking, organization, and time management skills.
• Ability to manage highly sensitive and ambiguous information with composure and professionalism.
• Advanced computer literacy, including business systems and Microsoft Office Suite.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Public Administration, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 7+ years of HR and associate relations experience, including leading highly complex investigations and managing teams of HR professionals.
• PHR or other HR certification preferred.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

Typical office environment; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

• 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.