Lease Compliance Specialist

About the Team

Our Real Estate team
takes on the task of finding and managing over 1,600 stores, DCs, and offices.

Their scope is pretty big, as we are a multi-national retailer with over 1,600 leased stores, offices, and distribution centers in the US, Canada, Puerto Rico, and Hong Kong. The team also supports new store growth through market analysis and research with the industry’s best data resources and analytical tools. In addition to supporting the stores, we work directly with the Real Estate Legal, Facilities, New Store Construction, and Finance teams.

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 Lease Compliance Specialist  is responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of lease-related data within the Lease Administration System. This role includes the interpretation, abstraction, and verification of lease documents (e.g., leases, amendments) and supports compliance with internal policies. The Analyst plays a key role in processing rent obligations, preventing lease defaults, and providing critical support to the Lease Compliance team.

Major Responsibilities

• Enter, maintain, and update lease data in lease administration systems, including rent terms, critical dates, and key financial provisions, in accordance with established standards.

• Run standard variance and exception reports related to rent, CAM, tax, and insurance charges and compile supporting documentation.

• Investigate and troubleshoot escalated payment processing issues; coordinate with internal teams and external partners to resolve inquires.

• Perform data validation, completeness checks, and periodic reviews to support lease compliance and payment accuracy.

• Conduct audits of system users and payment documentation to ensure SOX compliance, segregation of duties, and policy adherence.

• Assemble materials and provide support for internal audits, SOX compliance activities, and routine compliance reviews.

• Coordinate with internal teams to resolve routine compliance-related inquiries and provide cross-coverage support within the Lease Compliance function.

• Assist with the development, documentation, and maintenance of standard operating procedures for lease data management.

This position performs compliance activities using established procedures, templates, and guidelines. Matters requiring interpretation of complex lease provisions, resolution of escalated landlord disputes, or ownership of compliance policy and controls are referred to senior Lease Administration or Lease Compliance personnel.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Associate’s degree required;
  Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• 3-5 years of prior experience in lease administration, accounting, real estate, or a related operational role.

Skills & Competencies

• Intermediate knowledge of accounting principles.

• Ability to interpret and apply lease language in a retail or commercial real estate environment.

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Strong organizational, communication, and follow-up skills.

• Ability to manage and prioritize multiple work streams.

• Ability to work effectively with internal partners and external stakeholders.

Systems & Tools

Tango, SAP, Microsoft Excel; experience with USGN or similar real estate systems preferred.

Physical Demands

The position may occasionally require lifting or moving items weighing up to 20 pounds.

Disclaimer

The statements above are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by individuals assigned to this position. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, or skills. The Company reserves the right to modify duties and responsibilities as business needs require.

• This role requires collaboration, teamwork, and…