Sr. Manager, Real Estate Development

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Our Real Estate team takes on the task of finding and managing over 1,600 stores, DCs, and offices. The team supports new store growth through market analysis and research with data resources and analytical tools, and works with Real Estate Legal, Facilities, New Store Construction, and Finance teams.

Collaborative & Flexible Work Environment:
Pet Smart emphasizes growth, teamwork, and creativity in a dynamic workplace. This role is based at Pet Smart’s Phoenix Home Office, with in-person collaboration most days and flexibility to work remotely one day per week (a “flex workday” with leader approval), and an expected four days in the office.

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 manages remodels, integrates new veterinary service spaces, navigates landlord-driven site changes, and oversees renovation activities that support evolving store formats and customer experience. This is an opportunity for a seasoned real estate development professional who thrives in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment and is passionate about improving the customer experience of our brand.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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).

At Pet Smart, 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 contribute to Pet Smart’s Belonging culture and overall 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. You may be the ideal candidate for this role, and perhaps for another position.

Our home office offers outstanding amenities in a supportive workplace, including:

• Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work
• On-site Dog Park
• On-site gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists and personal trainers
• On-site café serving breakfast and lunch options
• On-site coffee bar
• Learning center and on-site daycare facility (associate paid)
• Volunteer events with Pet Smart Charities
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• Associate stories and celebrations at:
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Pet Smart 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.