Paws and profits: PetSmart announces new executive vice president, and more

PetSmart has a new executive vice president and chief commercial officer with more than 30 years of experience. Meanwhile, a veterinary-focused artificial intelligence (AI) company appointed a a new strategic advisor with experience in AI startups, CEO roles, and more. Moreover, recently, a pet care plan provider announced a new managing director for its United States division.

Continue reading to learn more about each of these individuals.

Sean Fitzgerald, managing director US, Premier Vet Alliance

Sean Fitzgerald, managing director US, Premier Vet Alliance. (Image courtesy of Premier Vet Alliance)

The pet care plan provider Premier Vet Alliance appointed Sean Fitzerald as its new managing director US. Fitzgerald has experience in sales leadership and coaching, strategic development, and account management. Previously, Fitzgerald has held roles with Zoetis, Elanco, and Vetsource.

"I am excited to join Premier Vet Alliance and look forward to working with the talented team to further strengthen our position in the US market. Together, we will continue to innovate and provide outstanding support to veterinary practices and pet owners. I am committed to leveraging my experience to drive growth and deliver exceptional value to the practices we serve,” said Fitzgerlad in a company release.¹

"We are thrilled to welcome Sean to the Premier Vet Alliance team," said Dominic Tonner, CEO of Premier Vet Alliance. "His deep understanding of the veterinary industry and his strategic vision will be instrumental in driving our growth. We’re confident Sean will help elevate our services and support, delivering exceptional value to our clients."

Jesica Duarte, MBA, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, PetSmart

Jesica Duarte, MBA, executive vice president and chief commercial officer, PetSmart. (Image courtesy of PetSmart)

Earlier this month, PetSmart announced Jesica Duarte, MBA, as its new executive vice president and chief commercial officer. In her new position, Duarte will lead merchandising, proprietary brands, merchandise planning & allocation, digital, and marketing organizations at the pet retailer.

"Jesica is a strategic and growth-minded leader, with an impressive career tenure working across successful retail brands" Ken Hicks, PetSmart president and CEO, said in an organizational release.² "She has led teams through significant business and process transformations, while delivering strong business results and her expertise will be invaluable as we work to advance our long-range plan."

Duarte has more than 3 decades of experience in leadership and served as group vice president of national merchandising for the Albertsons Companies in her most recent role. She has also held positions at Walmart, Molson Coors Beverage Company, Beam Suntory, Estee Lauder and J.C. Penney. A native of Chile, Duarte has also served as chair of the Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.

Bryan Haardt, strategic advisor, ABC Intelligence

Bryan Haardt, strategic advisor, ABC Intelligence.

ABC Intelligence, a company specializing in artificial intelligence (AI)-driven data solutions and decision-support platforms for animal health, recently welcomed Bryan Haardt as its strategic advisor. In his new role, Haardt will work with the ABC Intelligence’s executive team on market strategy, go-to-market acceleration, and more.

Haardt has an extensive background in AI, software platforms, and Internet of Things. According to ABC Intelligence, he often serves as an advisor to AI startups and investment groups interested in transformative technology. Haardt has also been CEO of various digital health companies and held a leadership role at Boehringer Ingelheim. Haardt has also served as the chief technology officer for the Houston Technology Center and was a founding member of the Greater Houston Partnership’s Emerging Business Council.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Bryan to ABC Intelligence. His ability to scale complex technologies and align vision with execution is exactly what we need as we enter our next phase of growth,” Scott Woodrow, CEO of ABC Intelligence, said in a news release.³ “Bryan’s strategic insights and track record in AI commercialization make him an invaluable addition to our team.”

References

1. Premier Vet Alliance appoints Sean Fitzgerald as new managing director USA. News release. Premier Vet Alliance. July 24, 2025.
2. PetSmart appoints Jesica Duarte as executive vice president and chief commercial officer. News release. PetSmart. August 4, 2025. Accessed August 29, 2025. https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/petsmart-appoints-jesica-duarte-as-executive-vice-president-and-chief-commercial-officer-302520931.html
3. ABC Intelligence, Inc. appoints Bryan Haardt as strategic advisor. News release. August 4, 2025.