I Belong Series: Meet Alim, Sr. Applications Analyst – Business Enabling Systems

Alim's been part of #LifeAtPetSmart for a little less than 5 years. As a member of our pack within the IT space, he helps to lead, own, and support enterprise-level systems and applications and works cross-functionally to bridge the technical gap between the business and its customers. We're lucky to have his passion and dedication on our team and are happy to share his story Belonging at PetSmart.

---

The Belonging Program’s “I Belong” Series harnesses the power of empathy through storytelling. This series is intended to give associates a greater sense of understanding, a bridge to gain new perspective, and a way to build connection to each other. To learn more about the “I Belong” Series or to submit your stories, associates can visit PetSmart's Belonging Fetch Page.

---

Meet Alim | Sr. Applications Analyst – Business Enabling Systems

In 2016, I was presented with an opportunity that would forever change my career – to join the PetSmart team.

Before joining PetSmart, I had been working in IT. I enjoyed my work but found myself in a toxic team environment that lacked collaboration, prevented growth and development opportunities, and stifled original thought. This left me feeling stressed, discouraged, and unsupported in handling situations that arose. Most days, I would go home visibly upset and feeling defeated.

Since my first day at PetSmart, I knew I was in a place where I belonged. Even though I had no prior retail experience, I had leaders who believed in me, trusted me, and supported my growth as a team member. It is refreshing to be part of a company that sincerely values its employees and the diversity in our backgrounds, experiences, and thoughts!

Over the past four years, I have seen our workplace culture shift to become more open and foster opportunities to learn, collaborate and make a difference. It is one of the reasons why I choose to remain.

• I choose to remain at PetSmart because of what we stand for.

• I choose to remain at PetSmart because of all the amazing and talented people.

• I choose to remain at PetSmart because I have opportunities to grow.

• I choose to remain at PetSmart because I am valued.

• I choose to remain at PetSmart because I Belong.

Every day I feel empowered as an associate to bring my best to the table. I recognize my responsibility to lead by example in creating a strong foundation where we elevate and support others, positively challenge the status quo and continually push PetSmart forward.