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!

Hybrid Position:

This position may be considered Hybrid based on PetSmart’s FlexSmart policy and business needs. A Hybrid work arrangement is considered to be a blend of onsite and remote work activity. Associates with a Hybrid work arrangement have a work space at Phoenix Home Office and can be required to come onsite between 1-5 days a week as determined by leadership and based on business needs.

Job Summary:
The Principal Associate & Labor Relations Manager is a subject matter expert in labor and positive associate relations and is responsible for the development and delivery of the Positive Associate Relations (PARs) strategy for PetSmart, in partnership with the Director, Positive Associate Relations and Work Environment. This individual is responsible for providing strategic program leadership including response plans, labor preparedness and labor relations, providing both proactive and reactive solutions that support PetSmart’s associate work experience. Additionally, will collaborate cross functionally with Humans Resources, Legal Counsel, Communications and Business Leaders to define overall short- and long-term labor relations strategies that support overall business objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

• Organizes and helps facilitate PAR training strategies to regularly train leaders, HRBPs, and business partners on topics such as on effective leadership practices, labor law compliance, third-party representation awareness, and rapid response techniques.
• Organizes teams and programs to respond to associate incidents and other activity; designs and implements program guidelines, operational response plans, and communication avenues.
• Consult with business leaders and HR Business Partners on sensitive issues that detract from achieving a positive work environment; provides guidance and recommendations for resolution of issues.
• Regularly supports in development and review of PARs related metrics, analyzes, and identifies trends, and recommends plans of action to address gaps. Prepare reports and presentations for senior leadership regarding labor relations issues and initiatives.
• Maintains current knowledge of employee and labor relations trends, legal decisions, and statutory changes; synthesizes impact to current programs or policies.
• Serves as Company representative in contract negotiations and collective bargaining. Uses appropriate negotiation strategies to develop bargaining goals and negotiate contracts consistent with PetSmart’s mission, vision and values. Prepares documents and drafts proposals for collective bargaining or other labor negotiations.
• Validates administration and compliance with labor contracts; provides interpretation of labor contracts to leaders, associates, and business partners.
• Advises leadership and oversees processes for resolution of labor relations issues, including disciplinary procedures, performance issues, and grievance procedures.
• Provides consultative and investigatory support regarding escalated associate relations issues. Leads complex and impartial investigations, including compliance investigations.
• Performs other related duties as assigned.
• Regular travel is required (up to 30%), including overnight and international travel as needed.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Labor Relations, Business Administration, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of experience in labor relations, with a focus on retail or service industries.
• Combination of relevant experience and education permissible
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills.
• Must possess excellent creative problem-solving and critical thinking skills. Using data to provide solutions that support the associate work experience.
• Proven track record of successful collective bargaining negotiations and dispute resolution.
• Strong knowledge of labor laws and regulations, including federal and state employment laws.
• Ability to think strategically and implement effective labor relations practices.

At PetSmart, 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 not only bring new perspectives in shaping our Belonging culture but they’re core to PetSmart’s 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 with us! You just may be the ideal candidate for this role, and if not this one, perhaps another position.

Our home office offers outstanding amenities in a fun and rewarding workplace including:

• Pet friendly environment, bring your pets to work!
• On-site Dog Park
• “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists and personal trainers
• “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options
• On-site coffee bar
• “Lil’ Paws” learning center and onsite daycare facility (associate paid)
• Volunteer events with PetSmart Charities
• Learn more about #LifeAtPetSmart here: https://www.lifeatpetsmart.com/life-at-petsmart/
• Check out Associate stories and share in some celebrations at PetSmart: https://www.blog.lifeatpetsmart.com/
• Explore PetSmart Benefits here: https://benefits.petsmart.com/
• If you don't already live in the Phoenix area here's a guide to the area:  Welcome to Phoenix Guide

PetSmart 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.