Director, UMBC Bookstore

Position Overview:

The Director of the UMBC Bookstore provides strategic, financial, and operational leadership for all bookstore operations in support of the University’s academic mission and student success. This position is responsible for overseeing procurement, inventory management, accounting, marketing, e-commerce, vendor relations, and customer service functions for a complex auxiliary enterprise with an annual operating budget of approximately $4 million. The Director ensures fiscal responsibility, compliance with University and State policies, high-quality service delivery, and continuous process improvement while collaborating extensively with campus partners, faculty, vendors, and external stakeholders. Serves as a member of the Auxiliary Services leadership team, collaborating with colleagues on departmental initiatives, events, and cross promotional activities. As part of the Division of Administration & Finance, UMBC Auxiliary Services supports the university by providing best in class service in the areas of campus retail, dining, catering, vending, campus ID, mail services, and event center operations. UMBC Auxiliary Services is a $20 million a year operation with 300 full-time staff members and over 300 part-time employees.

Why Work at UMBC?

UMBC offers competitive compensation. This role starts at $98,849 and has over 4 weeks of vacation for regular full time roles. Tuition remission is also available. What is it like to work at UMBC? Check out Glassdoor or Indeed. For 16 years in a row UMBC has been recognized as a Great College to Work For!

Telework:

A hybrid telework schedule may be available.

Responsibilities:

Strategic, Sales & Operational Leadership Directs all bookstore operations including retail sales, merchandising, course materials, online sales, inventory management, and customer service. Establishes sales strategies, operational goals, policies, and procedures to drive revenue growth, operational efficiency, and compliance. Oversees inventory levels to ensure appropriate stock availability, turnover, and cost control, and manages royalty reporting and payments in accordance with contractual and University requirements. Analyzes sales trends, inventory data, and royalty obligations to inform forecasting, merchandising decisions, and long-term strategic planning. Works closely with University creative services team on the management of licensing agreement in the area of retail emblematic merchandise.
Financial Management & Accounting Oversight Oversees a $4 million annual operating budget, including revenue forecasting, financial analysis, reconciliations, audits, payroll oversight, commission check tracking, and comprehensive financial reporting. Manages and monitors departmental spending budgets to ensure alignment with financial targets. Ensures adherence to University, State, and audit requirements. Implements internal controls and process improvements to maximize profitability, strengthen fiscal accountability, and mitigate financial risk.
Personnel Management & Staff Oversight Directly oversees bookstore full-time staff. Responsible for hiring, training, scheduling, performance management, and staff development. Establishes staffing models to support peak sales periods, ensures accountability for operational standards, and fosters a collaborative, customer-focused work environment.
Vendor Relations & Contract Management Manages relationships with key vendors and partners including textbook wholesalers, publishers, and digital content providers.
Marketing, E-Commerce & Sales Strategy Develops and oversees marketing initiatives, promotions, and e-commerce strategies to drive sales and enhance customer engagement. Monitors online performance metrics and implements improvements to the bookstore’s digital presence. Other duties as assigned.

Required Minimum Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• 5 years of experience in retail management.
• Experience with modern point-of-sale and eCommerce systems.
• Experience leading a team, including, but not limited to: performance management, scheduling, payroll, and hiring/on-boarding.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in collegiate retail, merchandise buying, inventory management, and retail advertising.
• Experience and knowledge of higher education course materials, including, but not limited to: Textbook buying cycle, rental programs, digital content, and inclusive and equitable access models.
• Postgraduate, continuing, or certificate course in the areas of leadership, operations, inventory control, marketing, or retail management.

Salary:

$98,849 to $111,467 depending on qualifications and experience.

Hours:

Full-time

Type:

Regular

FLSA Status:

Exempt

Special Instructions to Applicants:

Upload a cover letter and a resume.

Closing Date:

Open Until Filled

Benefits:

UMBC offers a rich benefits package... (full benefits summary linked)