PetSmart names former Collective Brands chief as CEO as David Lenhardt steps down

Phoenix – PetSmart on Wednesday named industry veteran Michael J. Massey as its president and CEO, effective immediately. Massey, who most recently served as CEO and president of Collective Brands Inc., replaces David Lenhardt, who stepped down upon the closing of private equity firm BC Partners’s acquisition of the pet supplies retailer. Also, BC Partners managing partner Raymond Svider has been appointed non-executive chairman.



Lenhardt joined PetSmart in 2000, and was named president and CEO since 2013. He had announced his intent to step down upon the closing of the deal with BC Partners.



“I have been honored and privileged to lead this great company,” Lenhardt stated. “My 15-year journey with PetSmart is filled with wonderful memories of our passionate associates who represent the best and brightest in retail.”



In December, a private equity consortium led by BC Partners agreed to buy Phoenix-based PetSmart for $8.7 billion. The chain is scheduled to cease trading on the Nasdaq Stock Exchange at Wednesday's close.



Addressing his appointment as CEO, Massey, who is on the board of Office Depot, said: “I am excited to work closely with the PetSmart team to bring the brand ever closer to the hearts of Pet Parents everywhere. I’m confident that PetSmart’s future will be one defined by growth, increased opportunities for our team and closer emotional connections with our customers.”