Lease Analyst - PetSmart

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.

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.

SUMMARY

This job is responsible for auditing and analyzing all year-end expenses such as Common Area Maintenance, Insurance, and real estate tax billings for 1,700+ leases, of approximately $130M annually. Negotiates appropriate resolutions with the Landlords, provides interpretation of multifaceted lease language and provides knowledge to Landlords, others within the team and across the company.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Performs audits of all Common Area Maintenance (CAM), Real Estate Taxes, and Insurance reconciliations for all company leases.
• Provides audit results within a written report to landlords on CAM, RET, INS obligations paid and unpaid each year-end.
• Negotiates intricate disputed results and provides resolution with the Landlord based on complex Lease/Legal interpretation and previous negotiated precedents. Leverage this interpretation and negotiation experience to drive a mutually beneficial and respectful resolution.
• Manages the recovery of approximately $500K annually in impounds not due per Lease terms.
• Support Lease Accounting team through research, review and recommendations for $6-$10M of aged accrual releases.
• Interprets individual lease accounts to determine what obligations are due.
• Systematically evaluates and adjusts monthly impounds for expenses (when required by the Lease) to ensure the company is not under or over impounding occupancy expenses.
• Inputs completed billings into web-based system for payment/credit adjustment rectification.
• Completes ad-hoc reporting in support of department and/or corporate initiatives.
• Research of Landlord’s A/R to identify misapplications and accounting errors.
• Influence the ability to interact with internal and external business partners to resolve conflict – both in verbal and written communication.
• Represents the company in any litigation that arises because of landlords not refunding overpayments.

 Education and Experience:

• Associate degree
• 2 years’ relevant experience

KEY COMPETENCIES attributed to success in the role include, but are not limited to the following:

Requires analytical and problem-solving skills to analyze complex data for trends; strong knowledge of accounting /math skills related to real estate management and/or accounting concepts; prefer ability to interpret complex lease language; ability to influence others and work collaboratively, illustrate project and time management, critical thinking and problem solving, relationship management, embrace change and strong communication skills.                                

TECHNICAL SKILLS 

Strong skills in Microsoft Outlook, Word, and Excel, and preferred knowledge of other Lease Administration software.

Requires analytical, plus bookkeeping/accounting skills.

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.