Sr. Manager, Real Estate Development

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.

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 is responsible for managing remodels, integrating new veterinary service spaces, navigating landlord‑driven site changes, and overseeing renovation activities that support our evolving store formats and customer experience.

This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned real‑estate development professional who thrives in a fast‑paced, cross‑functional environment and is passionate about improving the way customers experience 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).

• 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…