#USA #Phoenix #animal welfare #PetSmart Charities #Salim Hirji

Salim Hirji Joins PetSmart Charities Board

In a significant development for animal welfare, Salim Hirji, a distinguished partner in Private Equity at Apollo, has been appointed to the board of PetSmart Charities® as of February 19, 2026. This decision marks not only a strategic move for the organization but also highlights Hirji's extensive experience in both corporate and philanthropic sectors, particularly within consumer and retail services.

A Strong Background in Leadership

Hirji's career is marked by substantial achievements that underscore his commitment to the convergence of business success and giving back to the community. His previous roles at renowned companies such as PetSmart, The Michaels Companies, and Yahoo! have equipped him with the necessary strategic insight to drive meaningful change within PetSmart Charities.

"We’re thrilled to have Salim on board," expressed Aimee Gilbreath, president of PetSmart Charities. "His leadership qualities and focus on operational excellence will greatly enhance our efforts as we continue to connect pets with loving homes and provide vital care to those in need."

Educational and Professional Milestones

Salim Hirji graduated from Columbia University with degrees in Economics and Political Science. He began his professional journey in the Financial Institutions Group at Goldman Sachs, where he honed his skills in financial analysis and strategic management. Recognizing his contributions to the finance sector, Forbes named him to its '30 Under 30 – Finance' list in 2018, a testament to his early success and influence in the industry.

A Passion for Pets and Philanthropy

As a dedicated pet owner to his dog, Lucy, Hirji’s passion for animals aligns perfectly with the mission of PetSmart Charities, which has been a stalwart of animal welfare in North America. His perspective on pets as family members resonates deeply within the organization, which not only focuses on adoption but also aims to improve access to veterinary care and combat pet hunger.

Hirji himself stated, "In my experience, pets are family members. They love you unconditionally and are there for you on the best and worst of days. I am honored to serve on the board of an organization that does such meaningful work to improve the lives of pets and their families."

Collaborating for Better Outcomes

In his role at PetSmart Charities, Hirji will work alongside a diverse group of leaders from various industries, including finance and animal welfare. This collaborative approach is expected to provide valuable governance, oversight, and expertise that will enhance the organization’s outreach and operational effectiveness.

PetSmart Charities has a storied history, having successfully facilitated the adoption of over 11 million pets since its inception. Through various initiatives, the organization not only matches pets with families but also provides grants to support other groups focused on animal welfare. Each year, they allocate millions of dollars to ensure the well-being of pets, demonstrating a commitment that goes beyond mere monetary contributions.

With more than 90% of donations utilized directly for their mission, PetSmart Charities has established itself as a trusted community resource, continually advocating for animals in need. As they welcome Hirji to the board, the organization is poised for continued growth and enhanced impact.

For more information about PetSmart Charities and its leadership initiatives, visit PetSmartCharities.org.

In conclusion, Salim Hirji's appointment is a promising step forward for PetSmart Charities as they aim to expand their services and continue their vital mission of connecting pets with loving homes and providing for their well-being in the face of various challenges.