MANAGER / CMU BOOKSTORE

The Store Manager is responsible for the overall leadership, strategic planning, and administration of the campus store, ensuring efficient operations that support the academic mission and student experience of the university. The Manager provides oversight of all retail operations, including financial management, merchandising, inventory control, course materials, customer service, marketing, e-commerce, and personnel management. The position develops and implements operational strategies that promote fiscal sustainability, enhance customer satisfaction, and support institutional goals. The Store Manager is responsible for establishing policies, procedures, and internal controls that ensure compliance with university regulations, applicable laws, and industry best practices. The Manager oversees budget development and management, analyzes operational and financial performance, negotiates vendor relationships, and identifies opportunities to improve services, increase revenue, and enhance operational efficiency. Working collaboratively with faculty, staff, students, alumni, vendors, and campus partners, the Store Manager ensures the timely availability of course materials, branded merchandise, technology products, and other retail offerings that meet the needs of the university community. The Manger provides leadership and supervision to professional, support, and student employees, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, exceptional customer service, and continuous improvement. The Store Manager serves as the primary representative of the campus store and provides leadership in advancing initiatives that contribute to student success, institutional priorities, and the long-term financial health of the campus retail operation. Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree or a combination of education and experience that equates to fours years, preferably in business administration with an emphasis in management and accounting. Five years of experience in the college bookstore industry. Three years of experience serving as manager or assistant manager of a store overseeing an annual inventory of $5 million. Demonstrated experience in hiring and training new personnel. Working knowledge of textbooks (new and used) and the procurement, sale, and return of textbooks. Ability to move or handle merchandise throughout the store weighing up to 50 pounds. Demonstrated positive interpersonal skills. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and project a positive image. Preferred Qualifications Master’s degree. Experience in the procurement, sale, and management of non-text areas (trade books and general merchandise). Experience with and working knowledge of PRISM bookstore management system. Knowledge of Internet technology, design maintenance, and promotion of websites/e-commerce. Working knowledge of SAP accounting system. Duties & Responsibilities Provides strategic leadership and overall direction for the campus store in support of the university’s mission, strategic plan, and student success initiatives. Develops and implements short- and long-term operational goals, business plans, and performance measures to ensure the financial sustainability and growth of the campus store. Evaluates industry trends, emerging technologies, and customer needs to identify opportunities for innovation and operational improvement. Develops, implements, and maintains departmental policies, procedures, and internal controls that promote operational excellence and accountability. Develops, administers, and monitors the annual operating budget and long-term financial plans. Analyzes sales, revenue, expenses, gross margins, inventory turnover, and other key performance indicators to ensure sound financial performance. Works with Assistant Director to establish pricing, merchandising, and promotional strategies that maximize revenue while supporting affordability for students. Oversees cash management, financial reporting,…

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