Public Relations Specialist - PetSmart

The Legal & Corporate Affairs team is responsible for safeguarding the company’s reputation, ensuring we are operating with integrity and in line with our strategic initiatives. The Legal team provides high-quality legal services, ensures legal compliance and mitigates risks.  The Corporate Communications team works to execute strategic and effective communication efforts that drive brand awareness, preference and reputation with internal and external stakeholders. In addition, the Corporate Social Responsibility & Belonging teams support the company’s environmental and social commitments with a strong focus on pets, people and the planet.  The collective team supports the overall success and positive reputation of the company.  

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

The Public Relations Specialist supports the development and execution of PetSmart’s public relations strategy. This individual will support the PR team in building the company’s brand awareness and corporate reputation through strategic media relations and public-facing communications. The PR Specialist should have past media relations experience and a desire to grow their career on a high-performing team.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to:

• Support in executing PetSmart’s overarching PR strategy including product, consumer, business and thought leadership efforts to drive positive media coverage for the business.
• Coordinate with internal teams and agency partner to gather necessary information and details to execute ongoing campaigns.
• Assist with writing a range of materials including PR plans, press releases, media pitches, key messages, etc.
• Keep a pulse on emerging trends and conduct research on industry trends, competitor PR activities, and relevant media outlets to identify opportunities for the company.
• Monitor for media coverage and assist in development of quarterly reporting and campaign recaps for leadership.
• Support coordination of key events.
• Field media inquiries and manage inbound media requests.  

EDUCATION and EXPERIENCE 

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Journalism or a related field.
• At least 1-2 years strategic communications experience.
• Experience in media relations, including pitch ideation, outreach and success in securing media coverage.
• An understanding of the earned media landscape and media relations.

SKILLS REQUIRED:

• Ability to work across multiple teams and handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to organization and detail.
• Collaborative team player with the ability to adapt in a changing environment.
• Energetic, results-oriented, self-starter with the desire and ability to go above and beyond.
• Resourceful and proactive; able to work well under pressure with a flexible attitude.
• Professional and comfortable working with senior leadership.

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.