Sr. Manager, Transportation Strategy

PetSmart • Phoenix, AZ

10d • Hybrid

About The Position

The Senior Manager, Transportation Strategy serves as a key member of the Transportation Leadership Team and is responsible for defining and executing strategic initiatives across the transportation network, including Domestic Inbound and Domestic Outbound operations. This role drives continuous improvement through data-driven decision-making, strategic planning, and cross-functional collaboration to optimize cost, service, and operational performance.
The Senior Manager will play a critical role in enterprise-level decision support, including carrier negotiations, contract management, and the leadership of high-impact initiatives that deliver measurable business value. This position partners closely with Transportation Operations leadership and cross-functional stakeholders across Store Operations, Distribution, Digital, Merchandising Planning & Analytics (MP&A), and Information Technology.
As a leader of people, the Senior Manager is accountable for developing high-performing teams, strengthening organizational capability, and driving sustained improvements in key performance metrics related to transportation cost, service, and reliability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Supply Chain, or related field
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in transportation, supply chain or last mile operations
• 2+ years of people leadership experience, including team development and performance management
• Demonstrated expertise in transportation strategy, carrier management, and RFP processes.
• Strong understanding of transportation pricing structures, market dynamics, and cost drivers.
• Proven ability to analyze complex data sets, draw actionable insights, and translate analysis into strategic direction.
• Strong organizational, time management, communication, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and stakeholders.
• Track record of building strong, collaborative relationships with internal partners and external vendors.
• Experience leading diverse teams and developing talent across multiple levels.
• Comfortable operating in ambiguous, evolving environments and driving change through influence and leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of transportation strategies that optimize cost-to-serve while maintaining or improving service levels across inbound and outbound.
• Identify and prioritize initiatives that drive efficiency, network optimization, and scalability, including mode optimization, utilization improvements, and prepaid-to-collect conversions.
• Oversee the end-to-end execution and analysis of transportation carrier Requests for Proposal (RFPs), including annual and ad hoc sourcing events.
• Lead carrier negotiations, contract strategy, and performance management to ensure competitive pricing, service excellence, and alignment with business objectives.
• Lead a team responsible for advanced transportation analytics, reporting, and solution development.
• Deliver forward-looking, scenario-based (“what-if”) analysis to inform strategic planning and executive decision-making.
• Leverage analytical tools and modeling capabilities to roadmap initiatives that improve network efficiency and cost performance.
• Continuously evaluate and leverage third-party platforms, tools, and solutions to advance transportation capabilities and unlock new optimization opportunities.
• Partner with internal stakeholders to pilot, implement, and scale innovative transportation technologies.
• Provide oversight of freight payment and audit processes to ensure accurate, timely payment to all carrier and courier partners.
• Ensure compliance with contractual terms and resolve discrepancies in partnership with internal and external stakeholders.
• Monitor emerging logistics technologies, market trends, and industry best practices.
• Provide thought leadership and education to the broader organization on transportation market dynamics, benchmarking insights, and competitive positioning.
• Lead transportation planning and execution support for critical operational events, including peak seasons, holidays, and major promotional periods.
• Ensure alignment across teams to maintain service continuity and cost discipline during high-volume and high-risk periods.
• Lead, coach, and develop a team of analysts, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional growth.
• Build leadership capability across direct and indirect reports while promoting collaboration and engagement.

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: Manager