Alan Schnaid

Alan Schnaid is a seasoned executive with more than 30 years of experience in both public and private equity backed companies as well as corporate and nonprofit boards. His expertise spans diverse aspects of finance, public markets, and corporate transactions. Prior to his tenure at PetSmart, Alan spent 22 years at Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide in varying finance and accounting roles, eventually becoming Chief Financial Officer. 

For the past 8+ years, Alan has served as the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of PetSmart. Alan is a lifelong animal lover and cites the profound impact PetSmart Charities has made in the animal welfare space as a key influencer on his attraction to the role. 

At PetSmart, he is responsible for all the finance functions, corporate strategy, and the development and growth of the company’s veterinary health business. During his tenure, revenue has grown over 40% and the company achieved industry leading benchmarks and cash flow generation. Alan also played a critical role in navigating the turbulent times of the pandemic with calm leadership. 

With a passion for serving others, Alan has served on the boards of multiple non-profit organizations, including Phoenix Children’s Hospital. In addition to his new role as Vice Chairman of the board at PetSmart Charities, he serves on the board of CommLoan, a technology company providing a marketplace for lenders and borrowers in the commercial real estate space. CommLoan has more than 800 lenders on its platform and, to date, has funded more than 700 loans totaling $1.5 billion. 

Alan is a CPA (inactive status) and is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from California State University, Northridge (CSUN). As a result of his work in business and local communities, Alan was recognized by the David Nazarian College of Business and Economics at CSUN as one of their “Fabulous 50” alumni. He and his wife have three children and two Golden Retrievers.

Mission Moments

with Alan Schnaid

Why do you think pets are important in the lives of people?

Pets never judge. They love us unconditionally, all the time. Since the beginning of our marriage, my wife and I have rescued Golden Retrievers. Our three kids have always known our home and family to include at least one, but often two Goldens. Each of our rescues has been unique but all of them have been special, having brought us all so much love and joy.

What makes you most excited about working with PetSmart Charities?

Being associated with the largest animal welfare grantmaker in the country was part of my initial admiration of PetSmart. Now, seeing firsthand all the important work PetSmart Charities and our partners do on behalf of pets and people is a true honor and privilege.

What motivates you to want to be involved in the future of animal welfare? 

I have always experienced the joy of caring for pets, and I want as many people as possible to have access to that same opportunity. As the largest animal welfare grantmaker in the country, PetSmart Charities has a big role to play in that endeavor, from helping millions of pets to find loving homes, to finding ways for pet parents to gain access to affordable veterinary care, and everything in between.