Associate Business Development Manager, PetSmart

Associate Business Development Manager, PetSmart Location: Phoenix, AZ, United States Date Posted: Jun 19, 2026 Job ID: JV-2244 Central Garden & Pet Company (NASDAQ:CENT and CENTA), a leading innovator, marketer and producer of quality branded products for the pet, lawn and garden supplies markets is seeking an Associate Business Development Manager to join one of our key account sales teams within the Pet segment. We are looking for high energy and self-motivated candidates who are ready to take their next career step into an outside sales account management role. Desirable candidates will live in the Phoenix, AZ area; relocation will not be offered. This role is ideal for a high-energy, self-motivated individual looking to continue developing their career in National Account Management. The Associate Business Manager will support Omni-Channel sales execution and account management initiatives while partnering closely with a Senior Manager to learn the business, strengthen customer relationships, and develop strategic and analytical capabilities. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong communication, organization, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to collaborate effectively across teams and take increasing ownership as they grow within the role. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and interest in leveraging data and insights to drive decision-making is required. This position is based in our Phoenix, AZ office. We operate in a hybrid work environment that balances in-person collaboration with workplace flexibility. Employees are currently expected to work from the office at least three (3) days per week. Beginning in September 2026, our hybrid model will transition to four (4) in-office days per week to support greater collaboration, learning, and team connection.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

ACCOUNT SUPPORT & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Support development and execution of annual account plans aligned with corporate and Business Unit objectives. Assist in identifying opportunities related to distribution, assortment, pricing, promotions, and digital growth. Partner with senior leadership to support category growth initiatives and customer strategies. Learn and apply category management principles to support shelf expansion and portfolio growth.

FINANCIAL & PERFORMANCE SUPPORT

Assist in managing sales performance, forecasting, and KPI tracking for the account. Support monitoring of key metrics including Gross Sales, Gross-to-Net, Gross Margin, inventory, promotional performance, and digital metrics. Help identify risks and opportunities and recommend actions to improve performance.

DATA & INSIGHTS

Utilize consumer and retailer analytics platforms (NielsenIQ, Profitero, Numerator, retailer portals, etc.) to support business insights and recommendations. Translate data into customer-ready presentations and internal reporting. Analyze promotional performance, competitive activity, and category trends to support account planning.

CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION

Partner with Business Units including marketing, supply chain, finance, customer service, and sales operations teams to support execution. Participate in customer meetings, business reviews, and internal planning discussions. Develop strong understanding of Central’s product portfolio, capabilities, and strategic priorities.

RELATIONSHIP MANAGEMENT & COMMUNICATION

Build and maintain strong working relationships within PetSmart and across Central. Support preparation for customer meetings, line reviews, and joint business planning sessions. Create clear, data-driven presentations using PowerPoint and communicate insights effectively to multiple audiences. Take on increasing ownership and autonomy as experience and business knowledge develop.

QUALIFICATIONS

Demonstrated success delivering revenue and profit growth within a complex retail environment. Strong strategic planning, financial acumen, negotiation, and analytical skills. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel and PowerPoint required). Experience leveraging syndicated and retailer data platforms (e.g., NielsenIQ). Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.

MINIMUM EXPERIENCE & EDUCATION

BS/BA in Business or related discipline 2–5 years of sales, analytics, category management, customer business support, or related experience preferred Experience supporting retail accounts, consumer products, or multi-category brands is a plus

WORKING CONDITIONS

This position is based in a quiet, professional corporate office environment in Phoenix, AZ. Candidates must be in/around Phoenix, AZ (relocation not available). Approximately 20% business travel required (overnight travel included).

BENEFITS PACKAGE & EMPLOYEE PROGRAMS

Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance Free Life and Disability Insurance Health and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts 401k with 3% company match and annual employer discretionary contribution Paid vacation, holidays and sick time Employee Assistance Program Access to thousands of free online courses Discounts on cell phones, movie tickets, gym memberships, and more! Education Assistance (both college degrees and professional certifications) Referral Program with cash bonus Access to on-demand pay Paid parental leave We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Central Garden & Pet