PetSmart edits management team and organizational structure

PetSmart is making changes to its management team and organizational structure in conjunction with the retirement of president and COO Joseph O’Leary. The changes will become effective April 4.



Assuming the role of president will be current CEO David Lenhardt.



“On behalf of everyone at PetSmart, I want to thank Joe for his leadership and dedication to the company, our associates and our customers,” said Lenhardt. “Joe has been an integral part of PetSmart’s success for many years and we wish him all the best moving forward.”



“I’m proud of all that we have accomplished during my time at PetSmart, and am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with such a talented team of leaders and associates,” said O’Leary. “I continue to believe in PetSmart’s associates, vision and strategy, and it has been both a privilege and a pleasure to serve this great company for the past eight years.”



PetSmart does not intend to replace the COO position and will realign these responsibilities among four newly created EVP positions.



“Joe’s retirement has provided the opportunity to take a fresh look at our organizational structure and establish a senior leadership team that will best position PetSmart for future growth,” added Lenhardt. “We have strong and capable leaders, and with the addition of the new EVP positions, I’m confident we are in a position to deliver on our strategies and initiatives to drive future growth and deliver shareholder value.”



Carrie Teffner, who is currently SVP of finance and CFO, will now serve as EVP and CFO with responsibilities for overseeing finance and IS. The new chief information officer will report directly to Teffner.



Matt McAdam, who is currently SVP of merchandising, will now serve as EVP of merchandising and real estate.



Bruce Thorn, who is currently SVP of store operations and services, will now serve as EVP of store operations, services and supply chain.



The company is embarking on an external search to fill the fourth newly created position — EVP of customer experience, strategic planning and corporate development. The new hire will focus on developing strategies for creating an unmatched customer experience, in stores and online, and on developing organic and adjacent growth strategies across all platforms. Marketing, strategic planning and corporate development will report to the new EVP. PetSmart will also be conducting a search for a new chief information officer to replace Don Beaver, who is also retiring.



All four EVPs will report directly to Lenhardt.