Sr. Manager Positive Associate Relations

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

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, Busi