New alpha dog emerges at PetSmart

PHOENIX— PetSmart CEO Robert Moran has taken on the additional role of chairman of the board, the company announced Friday. Moran has been the company's president and CEO since 2009, and served as president and COO from 2001 to 2009. Phil Francis, previously executive chairman, will remain a member of the board.

The company also announced that its board of directors hasappointed David Lenhardt as the company’s new president and COO. Lenhardt joined PetSmart as SVP services, strategic planning and business development in October 2000. He was appointed SVP store operations and services in February 2007, and, in February 2009, became the SVP store operations and human resources. In January 2011, he became EVPt, assuming additional responsibility for information systems. Prior to joining PetSmart, Lenhardt worked at Bain & Company Inc., as well as in Merrill Lynch & Co. Inc.'s investment banking division.

The PetSmart board of directors also appointed Lawrence Molloy to the additional position of EVP. Molloy will retain his title and duties as CFO, and has assumed additional responsibility, overseeing the company’s real estate and legal functions.

Joseph O’Leary will continue to serve as the EVP merchandising, marketing, supply chain and strategic planning, reporting to Lenhardt.

“Phil has provided his vision and leadership to PetSmart for 25 years, helping to make it the successful, thriving company it is today,” said Moran. “We’ll always be grateful for his contributions, and are fortunate he will remain an active and valuable member of our board.”

All changes will be effective Jan. 30.