Sr Manager Packaging and PDP Digital Design

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 n our team and show your love for pets by creating products as special as pets themselves!

Collaborative Work Environment: At Pet Smart, 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.

The Sr Manager Packaging and PDP Digital Design will play a key role in the development of on‑strategy design solutions for Pet Smart’s proprietary brands packaging and digital. The ideal candidate owns the overall aesthetic expression for the brands they oversee, delivers fresh and forward design concepts, has expertise in developing packaging trade dress and design systems, knows how to push ideas beyond the norm.

This individual has a high level of initiative, provides a POV on what is right for the brand and has ability to influence and manage various large‑scale projects and deadlines simultaneously in a fast‑paced retail environment. Proven ability to deliver effective packaging and layout solutions and experience art directing photoshoots is a must.

This candidate must have excellent creative and organizational skills with the ability to communicate effectively cross‑functionally and across levels of the organization, as well as with external agencies and vendors. The Sr. Manager Packaging and PDP Digital Design is expected to be able to thrive in ambiguity, while inspiring cross‑functional teams to deliver results with an overall optimistic and "can do" attitude.

This role leads direct reports.

• Guided by innovative ideas and fresh thinking; produce effective brand identity and package design systems and concepts that allow for solves from simple PDP information graphics to line extensions and brand/system redesign.
• Deliver engaging presentations that clearly articulate design strategies to various levels in the organization.
• Partner closely with Copy team to develop compelling packaging communication hierarchy that helps the customer navigate to find the right product online or in store.
• Provide clear art direction and creative guidance for Graphic Designers, Package Designers, Photographers, Production team, and other cross‑functional partners.
• Understanding of dielines/packaging construction and ability to review physical proofs to ensure what is delivered hits the ask.
• Be organized, deliver work on‑time, carry responsibility into budgets and cost saving initiatives.
• Communicate packaging direction and process to direct team and cross‑functionally with Merchandising, Suppliers, Proprietary Brands and Marketing teams. Provide status updates to key stakeholders on a regular basis and as needed.
• This role is focused on packaging and online product description visuals but will work cross‑functionally to contribute to the development of all aspects of proprietary brands like strategy, overall digital presence, advertising, promotions, merchandising and environmental as needed.
• Understanding of how to work with brand architecture with a key focus on a consistency.
• Help ensure Proprietary Brand packaging conforms to U.S. and Canadian packaging regulations, as well as internal brand standards and guidelines.
• Continue professional development by further understanding of business, strategy, design, trend and packaging materials and industry best practices.
• Possess a high degree of ownership and initiative with the ability to focus on details as well as the big picture.
• Hands on when…