Patrick Bell, DBA

Patrick Bell brings nearly two decades of PetSmart leadership experience—and a deeply people-first style—to his role as Director of Pet Placement Initiatives at PetSmart Charities. Known for building high-performing teams and strong culture, Patrick now focuses that same energy on strengthening the connection between PetSmart stores, field leadership, and local shelter partners—so more pets find loving homes through in-store adoption programs, and teams across the business experience the impact of the mission in a real, tangible way.

For his nearly two-decades long tenure with PetSmart, Patrick embraced opportunities that took him across the country, most recently serving as a District Leader in the Great Lakes region. There, he built a reputation for translating strategy into results through disciplined operational execution, thoughtful P&L oversight, and a relentless commitment to associate development. Patrick leads with radical candor and servant leadership and is especially proud of coaching and mentoring others—helping people grow in confidence, sharpen skills, and advance their careers.

A lifelong learner, Patrick fully leveraged PetSmart’s tuition reimbursement program—earning his Bachelor’s, Dual Master’s, and Doctorate degrees while juggling professional roles. He completed a Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in organizational leadership and development, with research focused on corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the pet industry. His work explored how CSR initiatives can influence consumer trust, strengthen loyalty, and support long-term organizational performance—insights that directly inform how he thinks about mission and business working better together.

In his role at PetSmart Charities, Patrick is passionate about building a thriving partnership between store teams, field leaders, and adoption organizations—aligning strategy, relationships, and programs to expand adoption opportunities and support animal welfare partners across working on the front lines. At the heart of his work is a simple belief: when teams feel connected to purpose, everyone wins—pets, people, partners, and the communities PetSmart serves.

Patrick previously served on the Board of Directors for Hub City Humane Society, supporting adoption efforts, nonprofit sustainability, and community partnerships that expanded access to animal welfare services. He and his partner enjoy their two rescue cats, Leah and Elsa.

Mission Moments 

with Patrick Bell

Why do you think pets are important in the lives of people?
Pets bring an incredible sense of companionship, comfort, and joy into people’s lives. They have a unique ability to connect with us in ways that support emotional well-being, build routine and responsibility, and create meaningful bonds that often-become part of a family’s story.

How has your pet (or a previous pet) changed your life?
My cats, Leah and Elsa, constantly bring personality, humor, and calm into everyday life—and they serve as a daily reminder of why adoption programs and animal welfare partnerships matter so much. They were inspiration to my dissertation topic, as I felt more connected with PetSmart through the impact of PetSmart Charities adoption programs.

What makes you most excited about working with PetSmart Charities?
What excites me most is the ability to connect purpose with action—bringing together store teams, field leaders, and animal welfare partners to help more pets find loving homes. Seeing the real impact these partnerships have on pets, families, and communities is incredibly motivating.