Books Assistant Dept Manager

About The Job

Books Assistant Dept Manager

University of Minnesota Bookstores

The Course Materials Buyer / Departmental Assistant Dept Manager is a dual‑focus leadership role responsible for the strategic procurement of academic materials and the operational management of the course materials department. This position functions as a subject matter expert in the higher education retail landscape, managing the full lifecycle of course materials including digital resources while mentoring books department staff. The incumbent ensures that departmental objectives regarding academic compliance, inventory levels, and gross margin profit are met while assisting as a liaison between the Bookstore and collegiate departments.

40% – Departmental Leadership & Operations

• Mentor and support the development of departmental staff.
• On occasion serve as the primary Manager on Duty for Bookstores, overseeing store‑wide operations during assigned shifts, including nights and weekends.
• Assist in providing consultation on vendor integration for physical and digital material delivery and point‑of‑sale integration.
• Assist in leading the Books department on the application of University purchasing policies and retail methodologies.

35% – Strategic Sourcing & Academic Procurement

• Manage the acquisition of complex product categories including traditional textbooks, digital course materials (IA/EA), and custom publications.
• Assist in negotiating high‑level terms with publishers and digital aggregators regarding pricing, delivery terms and schedules, and return policies.
• Develop "just‑in‑time" procurement strategies to align inventory with fluctuating enrollment data.
• Coordinate with faculty and academic departments to ensure timely course material adoptions and compliance with University policies.

15% – Financial Analysis & Inventory Control

• Analyze market trends regarding the shift from print to digital and adjust procurement strategies accordingly.
• Monitor gross margins and inventory turnover to meet store financial goals.
• Resolve complex discrepancies involving purchase orders, digital delivery, and invoicing.

10% – Professional Development & Other Duties

• Attend industry trade shows and conferences to stay current on evolving digital delivery standards.
• Perform related responsibilities as assigned by the Department Manager.

• Advanced Procurement:
  Expert knowledge of retail policies, copyright laws, and digital material licensing.
• Analytical Depth:
  Ability to solve integrative problems involving educational technologies and supply chain logistics.
• Communication:
  Strong interpersonal skills to navigate sensitive discussions with faculty and collegiate administration.
• Technical Proficiency:
  Advanced skill in interpreting complex technical materials and digital delivery requests.

Work is performed primarily in a retail store and office setting.

Minimum Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in related fields and six (6) years of relevant experience. Position involves leadership, strategic direction, and customer service as well as assisting in data analysis to assist the department achieve overall objectives.

Knowledge,

Skills And Abilities

• Advanced knowledge of course materials policies, procedures, and procurement best practices.
• Demonstrated cognitive skill for strategic thought and leadership.
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting complex purchase requests and technical materials.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work effectively in a cross‑functional team environment.
• Ability to solve integrative problems involving technologies, processes, and resources.

Pay Range: $62,000–$86,000 annually depending on education/qualifications/experience

Time Appointment: 100% Appointment

Position Type: P&A Staff

Please visit the Office of Human Resources website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree‑seeking programs supported by…