Sr. Internal Communications Specialist

PetSmart • Phoenix, AZ

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Internal Communications Specialist develops and delivers clear, timely communications that help associates understand business priorities and stay connected to PetSmart. In partnership with the Sr. Manager, Internal Communications, business partners, and communications team members, the role supports executive, enterprise, and functional communications and helps maintain consistent messaging across internal channels. The specialist manages multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment, adapts plans as business needs change, and supports additional communications priorities as they arise.

The role builds communications relationships across business functions and executive leadership, develops strategic plans and executive materials, and coordinates communications for associate forums such as Town Halls and Business Update Meetings. It also leads content strategy and day-to-day management of PetSmart’s Central Bark intranet, including the vendor relationship, content performance, and improvements to the associate experience.

The position is based at PetSmart’s Phoenix Home Office. Associates are expected to work in the office at least four days each week and may work up to one remote flex day in a standard work week with leader approval. Face-to-face collaboration and on-site presence support access to leaders, partners, and resources.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, journalism, English, or a related field, or equivalent experience.
• Experience developing internal communications and executive messaging.
• Excellent writing, editing, and proofreading skills, with the ability to adapt content for different audiences and channels.
• Strong project management and organizational skills, including the ability to manage several priorities and deadlines.
• Experience working with senior leaders and cross-functional business partners.
• Ability to translate complex business information into clear, engaging communications.
• Experience managing digital content, an intranet, or a content management system.
• Strong judgment, attention to detail, and follow-through.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office.

Nice To Haves

• Experience managing vendor relationships.

Responsibilities

• Build strong working relationships with business partners and executive leaders in Merchandising, Marketing, Digital, MP&A, and Human Resources.
• Develop strategic communications plans that connect business priorities, initiatives, and changes to what associates need to know and do.
• Draft executive communications, including talking points, scripts, presentations, leader cascades, intranet content, and other materials.
• Develop and coordinate content for Town Halls, Business Update Meetings, department meetings, and other associate forums.
• Partner with meeting owners and presenters to shape key messages, agendas, scripts, presentations, and follow-up communications.
• Coordinate input and reviews across multiple contributors, keeping content accurate and deliverables on schedule.
• Help leaders communicate complex or sensitive topics clearly and consistently, connecting communications to PetSmart’s long-range plan, business priorities, and associate needs.
• Develop and maintain editorial plans, content standards, and publishing processes with contributors across the business.
• Advise business partners on organizing and presenting information on Central Bark, and support content for assigned business areas.
• Lead the content strategy and day-to-day management of PetSmart’s Central Bark intranet, helping keep it current, useful, and easy for associates to navigate.
• Manage the Central Bark vendor relationship, coordinating requests, issue resolution, enhancements, and ongoing platform needs.
• Monitor content performance and associate feedback to identify opportunities to improve the intranet experience.

Benefits

• Pet-friendly workplace where associates can bring pets to work, with an on-site dog park.
• On-site events and adoption activities, including seasonal celebrations, family events, art events, and holiday festivals.
• On-site gym with equipment, fitness classes, massage therapists, personal trainers, and wellness spaces.
• On-site café serving breakfast and lunch options and snacks.
• On-site NAEYC-accredited childcare facility providing early education.
• Paid volunteer opportunities.
• Print Center and Business Services.
• Dry cleaning services.
• Mother’s rooms.

What This Job Offers

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