Assistant Director University Bookstore

Position Title:
Assistant Director University Bookstore

Job Group:
Professional & Scientific

Required Minimum Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree and 5 years of related experience

Preferred Qualifications:
Extensive knowledge of a college bookstore retail operation, financial management, and inventory control principles.
Proficiency in financial analysis, budgeting, and contract negotiation.
Knowledge and experience with inclusive access and equitable access textbook distribution models.
Advanced computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, and industry-specific retail management software. Experience with database management and information systems preferred.
Ability to effectively engage and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders across diverse organizational levels. Presentations and public speaking.

Job Description:

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for retail management and higher education? Iowa State University Book Store is seeking an innovative and dynamic Assistant Director to play a crucial role in the management and strategic direction of our Iowa State University Book Store. Working closely with the Store Director, you'll oversee retail sales, inventory, personnel management, budgeting, procurement, and strategic planning.

The Assistant Director serves as a key liaison between the bookstore and university administration, faculty, staff, and external partners to ensure the effective delivery of academic resources and services.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership: Serve as a strategic thought leader with an entrepreneurial mindset. Collaborate with the Director to develop and implement strategic initiatives and goals to enhance bookstore operations and revenue generation. The Assistant Director will assume responsibility for store operations in the absence of the Director.

Operations Management: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the ISU Book Store to ensure efficient and effective service delivery. Proactively address and resolve operational challenges, using strong problem-solving skills to ensure smooth and efficient store operations. Deliver exceptional customer service, handling escalated customer issues, and ensuring a positive experience for customers. Implement and maintain operational policies and procedures to uphold high standards of customer service and operational excellence. Coordinate with various departments to ensure seamless operations, especially during high-intensity sales periods.

Personnel Management: Provide coaching, mentoring, and guidance to a team of four direct reports, while indirectly leading the entire bookstore staff. Foster a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Ensure effective communication, task completion, and alignment with bookstore objectives.

Procurement and Inventory Management: Direct the procurement and management of digital course materials, print textbooks, technology, art supplies, and office supplies product categories. Develop and implement merchandise open-to-buy plans, sales goals, and business standards to optimize inventory control and meet customer demand. Oversee and manage the inclusive access/equitable access textbook affordability initiatives.

Stakeholder Engagement: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with ISU administration, campus stakeholders, and industry partners. Collaborate on initiatives to enhance course material accessibility and affordability, drive outreach efforts, and promote bookstore advocacy at Iowa State University and nationally through professional associations.

Financial Analysis and Contract Negotiation: Analyze financial statements and key performance indicators to inform strategic decision-making and improve operational performance. Negotiate business contracts and agreements with vendors to secure favorable terms and ensure cost-effective procurement.

Regulatory Compliance: Monitor and ensure compliance with Federal and State legislation and regulations related to academic-related materials. Stay informed about changes in relevant laws and regulations, and proactively address any compliance issues that arise, particularly those impacting student affordability and access.

Market Research and Industry Trends: Monitor industry and market trends to identify opportunities for revenue growth and operational efficiency. Stay informed of industry best practices, emerging technologies, and educational trends. Analyze market data and consumer behavior to develop targeted marketing strategies and product offerings. Collaborate with the marketing and communications teams for messaging and campaign development.

The Iowa State University Book Store is open 7 days a week. All full-time positions require working a few weekends on a rotating schedule as Supervisor on Duty. Working hours may be adjusted at times for night and weekend requirements to support a healthy work-life balance. 

Level Guidelines
• Aware of key annual objectives of department or work unit
• Understands linkage between daily activities and achievement of annual objectives of department/work unit and explains to direct reports
• Focuses on ISU’s mission and meeting department or work unit goals
• Supervisors small department or work team
• Often is working supervisor with direct previous experience performing work supervised
• May have full HR responsibility for direct reports (hire, fire, counsel) or share part of responsibility with higher-level management
• Requests approval for financial actions beyond a limited scope per policy

Appointment Type:
Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year:

Time Type:
Full time

Pay Grade:
PS809

Application Instructions:

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following:
1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae
2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter
If you have questions regarding this application process, please email [email protected] or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485.
Why Choose ISU?
Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as:
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

Original Posting Date:
June 17, 2024

Posting Close Date:
July 7, 2024

Job Requisition Number:
R14910