What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bookstore Manager - PT position at Spirit Rock Meditation Center?
Summary
Spirit Rock is seeking a Part-Time Bookstore Manager for approximately 15-19 hours per week. The Bookstore Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the operation of the bookstore, which sells books, gifts, and tools used for meditation practice.
Primary Responsibilities
The Bookstore Manager is responsible for planning, organizing, and managing bookstore activities, which include:
On-Site Operations
- Purchasing: Order books, gift items, and supplies, as well as manage stock and inventory
- Inventory: Maintain a digital ordering, inventory, and POS system
- Operations: Develop and implement operating procedures as well as recommend appropriate related policies
- Staff: Train and supervise bookstore volunteers and extra-hires for ongoing bookstore hours of operation, which include residential retreat closing days and special events
Online Operations
- Bookshop.org: Serve as Spirit Rock’s point-of-contact for online fulfillment center bookshop.org
Financial Oversight
- Budget: Prepare and manage yearly bookstore budget
- Records: Work with Accounting department to maintain accounting records
- Sales Transactions: Oversee charging of payments and transfer of cash receipts to accounting
Relationships
- Retreat Support: Contact retreat teachers in a timely manner to ask which books they’d like sold at the end of retreats and manage the on-site logistics for the sale
- Customer Service: Resolve customer issues associated with merchandise and purchases
- Programs/Dharma Institute: Collaborate with Programs department and teachers to understand book needs for programs and on-demand courses to ensure inventory is available in the store and/or on bookshop.org
Knowledge and Skills Requirements
- Knowledge of bookstore retail operating principles, cashiering, budgeting, management principles, POS systems, and accounting
- Strong computer skills with proficiency in Google Sheets, Microsoft Excel, and Outlook plus daily interface with customized digital inventory system (Yellow Dog software)
- Knowledge and interest in Buddhism and Spirit Rock is required, with a preferred interest in the Theravada tradition
- Knowledge and interest in understanding new publications, gift ideas, and business opportunities; a creative ability to keep inventory fresh and move old inventory out
- Knowledge and interest in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, especially how they relate to Dharma books and programs
- Excellent communication and follow-up skills in working with teachers and staff to take care of book needs
- Effective planning and problem-solving skills
- Experience in managing other part-time staff and/or volunteers
- Well-organized, friendly, and approachable
- Ability to work with a diverse group of people
- Strong skills in writing reports and correspondence
- Adept at multitasking; ability to perform consistently, even under pressure
- Flexible schedule
Working Conditions
- 15-19 hours per week that vary based on retreat and event schedule
- Able to lift up to 30 pounds
Spirit Rock Meditation Center participates in the E-Verify program, a web-based system through which employers electronically confirm employment eligibility.