Jim Persinger

It is easy see Jim Persinger’s passion for pets and people shine through in his professional and personal life. As pet parent to two adopted cats, Jupiter and Cosmo, and a dog, Zuri, Jim and his family have also helped many pets in need. “Over the years, my family and I have volunteered at pet shelters and fostered pets in the places we have lived. We are passionate about animal welfare and know the value that individuals can contribute.” It is this passion, combined with a history of proven leadership spanning the globe, that led him north to become President of PetSmart Canada.

Before leading PetSmart’s Canadian Home Office and over 140 stores, Jim was SVP of MPA overseeing the company’s inventory and the development of the merchandise plans. Prior to that, Jim was the VP of Global Sourcing where he established the company’s first direct sourcing team and international sourcing offices. His role in Global Sourcing was fitting, as Jim’s career has taken him all over the world. Prior to joining PetSmart in 2015, he held several leadership roles at Payless ShoeSource where he was responsible for leading Asian sourcing operations and international development efforts to expand Payless’s retail footprint in Latin America, the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Australia. Earlier in his career, he held various buying and marketing positions in the U.S. and Japan.

As Chair of the PetSmart Charities of Canada board of directors, Jim lends his leadership to help further animal welfare in Canada. “I am excited to participate in an even bigger way with this opportunity to support the mission of PetSmart Charities of Canada.”

Mission Moments

with Jim Persinger

Why do you think pets are so important in the lives of people?
Pets are members of our families and they give us unconditional love. The connection between people and pets is incredibly strong and the bond brings joy to both. It’s a relationship where each is essential to the other.

How has your pet impacted your life?
As we have been working from home for the past several months, I especially appreciate that our pets stop by throughout the day to check on me. They nudge me or roll on my feet to let me know they expect to be petted. Those little interactions make every day brighter and I feel fortunate to have those opportunities.

Is there a PetSmart Charities of Canada impact story that sticks out in your memory?
There are so many great stories where the efforts of PetSmart Charities of Canada have supported people and pets across the country. I was particularly touched by a grant that was made to Calgary Seniors’ Resource Society’s Pet Assist program which supports low-income and isolated senior citizens with aspects of pet care. Volunteer run programs like Pet Assist allow people to keep that important connection with their pets even during tough times.