PetSmart Names New CEO

PetSmart has named Ken Hicks as president and CEO, effective Oct. 31. He will also serve on the company's board of directors. He replaces J.K. Symancyk who stepped down in September.

Previously CEO and executive chairman at Academy Sports + Outdoors, Hicks is a veteran of the retail landscape having worked for Foot Locker, JCPenney, Hope Shopping Network and May Department Store among others. 

He is a graduate from The United States Military Academy at West Point and served in the U.S. Army. He also earned an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School. 

"I am honored to be joining PetSmart and its talented team of pet-passionate associates," said Hicks. "PetSmart has a strong position with its broad assortment of pet products and service offerings, the Treats Rewards program that offers exceptional value for pet parents, and an omni-channel customer experience that allows pet parents to engage with the brand in the manner most convenient to them, including in-store, through the PetSmart mobile app and same-day home delivery options. 

Alan Schnaid who has been serving as Interim chief executive officer will continue in his key leadership role as executive vice president and chief financial officer.