Books Assistant Dept Manager

Books Assistant Dept Manager

University of Minnesota Bookstores

Description of Position

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.

Responsibilities

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 Environment

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

Qualifications

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.
  
  

• 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.
  
  

$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.

The University Offers a Comprehensive Benefits Package That Includes

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training and degree-seeking programs supported by the Regents Tuition Benefit Program
• Low-cost medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and employer-paid life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Excellent retirement plans with employer contribution
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) opportunity
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost
• Employee Transit Pass with free or reduced rates in the Twin Cities metro area
  
  

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will be given the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

Diversity

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Employment Requirements

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

About The U Of M

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America’s Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).