Bookstore Director

Global Jobs • Washington, DC, United States • $200k - $250k / year • 1w ago

The bookstore manager is responsible for overseeing the bookstore’s daily operations and maintaining an intimate knowledge of the books and products in the store. They will provide excellent customer service, answer questions and make recommendations to customers who visit the store, email or call. The bookstore manager is responsible for ordering, pricing and maintaining proper inventory of all items, including books, pottery and olive oil. The manager must also manage weekend coverage and clearly communicate with all staff members. The position includes the maintenance of a robust online store , and packaging and shipping items sold on our website in a punctual manner. Additionally, the bookstore manager must maintain contacts with wholesalers and community organizations. The bookstore director will also have the opportunity to write, solicit and edit book reviews for the Washington Report.

We are seeking someone who is knowledgeable about the current political situation and discussions surrounding books and writings on the Middle East, literature, culture, U.S. foreign policy and the Arabic language. Familiarity with our partner, the Washington Report on Middle East Affairs magazine, which is published upstairs, is desirable.

Qualifications

We’re Looking for in a Candidate:

Passion for peace in the Middle East and understanding of the region, culture, and history;
Familiarity with the latest books on the region, culture, history, and related U.S. policy;
Coordinate book reviews and the new arrivals section for the Washington Report;
Ability to visualize, help plan and implement our bookstore’s ongoing expansion. This could include putting together shelving, displays, furniture and more;
Provide and implement marketing ideas and social media expertise to increase books sales and foot traffic;
Ability to plan and schedule bookstore events, including book talks, book clubs, film screenings and other community events;
University degree; Arabic language proficiency a plus;
Experience in retail sales or management and customer service skills—friendly, punctual, flexible and reliable;
Provide and analyze monthly financial statements, including sales performance;
Accurately maintain a Shopify computerized inventory system, and price new books
Ability to perform basic maintenance and upkeep tasks of a public facing store