Operations Transformation & Automation Manager

PetSmart • Phoenix, AZ

11d • Onsite

About The Position

This position is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and advancing transformation initiatives that improve store operations through automation, emerging technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and operational modernization. This role partners across Store Operations, Services, Technology, Digital, Field and other business functions to identify opportunities, develop business cases and financials, manage the transformation portfolio, and validate solutions that improve associate experience, operational efficiency, and business performance.
The position serves as a strategic partner responsible for evaluating future capabilities, supporting enterprise transformation priorities, and ensuring initiatives deliver measurable business value aligned with organizational objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university in Business, Operations, Technology, or related field preferred.
• 3-5 years of experience in retail operations, project management, business transformation, strategy, technology, innovation, process improvement, or combination of these disciplines required.
• Experience evaluating operational opportunities and translating ideas into executable business recommendations preferred.
• Experience developing business cases, evaluating operational opportunities, and leading cross-functional initiatives preferred.
• Experience with automation, AI, innovation programs, or technology-enabled business transformation preferred.
• Strong strategic thinking and business acumen.
• Strong analytical, financial modeling, and business case development skills.
• Excellent communication, facilitation, and executive presentation skills.
• High ethical standards and the ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality
• Ability to influence without direct authority in cross-functional initiatives.
• Knowledge of automation technologies, AI capabilities, and emerging retail technology trends.
• Strong project, portfolio, and prioritization skills.
• Ability to manage multiple strategic initiatives simultaneously while balancing changing business priorities.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate opportunities to improve store operations through automation, AI, emerging technologies, and process modernization.
• Translate operational needs and develop business cases, financial analysis, and recommendations to support transformation investment decisions.
• Manage the transformation initiative portfolio, including intake, prioritization, tracking, and executive reporting.
• Lead innovation discovery activities, including emerging technology research, proof of concept (POC) planning, pilot execution, and solution validation.
• Lead the strategy for directed work and operational execution platforms to improve prioritization, visibility, and field execution effectiveness.
• Partner with cross-functional teams to define automation opportunities and support enterprise AI strategy and roadmap development.
• Establish success measures and evaluate transformation initiatives to ensure expected operational and financial outcomes are achieved.
• Support executive governance activities through preparation of recommendations, portfolio updates, business insights, and decision materials.
• Partner with Store Operations, Technology, Digital, Field and business stakeholders to ensure transformation initiatives align with enterprise priorities.
• Monitor industry trends and emerging retail technologies to identify and evaluate opportunities that enhance operational effectiveness and associate experience.
• Support organizational change readiness by identifying business impacts, risks, and adoption considerations associated with transformation initiatives.

Benefits

• Pet-friendly environment, bring your pets to work and enjoy the on-site dog park!
• On-Site Events & Adoptions, enjoy community-building opportunities, including pet adoption days, seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, & holiday festivals
• “Top Dog” gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces
• “Sit & Stay” Café serving fresh breakfast and lunch options, snacks, & more
• “Lil Paws” NAEYC-accredited onsite childcare facility providing high-quality early education
• Paid Volunteer Opportunities to spend time doing good for causes close to heart
• Print Center and Business Services, Dry Cleaning, Mother's Rooms, Sustainable Infrastructure & more

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level