Bookstore Operations and Event Manager

Full-Time | Senior-Level Position | Compensation Negotiable Based on Experience

We are an independent, high-volume bookstore known for hosting bestselling and nationally recognized authors. Our events range from intimate in-store conversations to large-scale, high-profile productions in partnership with publishers and industry leaders.

We are seeking a strategic, highly organized, and creative Operations Manager to join our team long-term. This is a senior-level role within our company — you will work directly with publishing houses, publicists, literary agents, and author teams to bring events to life at the highest level.

This position is fast-paced, demanding, and detail-driven — but incredibly rewarding for someone who thrives on producing meaningful, memorable experiences in the publishing and literary world.

There is significant room for growth within our organization.

About the Role

This is not an entry-level event planning position. You will:

• Coordinate directly with major publishers, publicists, agents, and author representatives
• Oversee events featuring bestselling and well-known authors
• Manage high-expectation, high-visibility events
• Represent the company professionally in national publishing conversations

The ideal candidate is confident communicating with industry professionals and comfortable operating in environments where precision, discretion, and professionalism are critical.

Required Skills & Qualifications

• Exceptional organizational, leadership, and delegation skills
• Ability to manage and execute an average of 40 projects simultaneously
• Strong written and verbal communication skills (professional-level correspondence required)
• Comfortable working directly with publishers, agents, and publicists
• Creative thinker capable of conceptualizing unique and immersive event experiences
• Highly detail-oriented with strong follow-through
• Excellent problem-solving skills in fast-paced environments
• Proficiency in Google Suite and Eventbrite
• Strong interpersonal skills and client-facing confidence

ResponsibilitiesEvent Planning & Execution

• Plan and execute a wide variety of events from concept through completion
• Manage both intimate gatherings and large-scale, high-profile productions
• Serve as the lead point of contact for author events

Publisher & Industry Relations

• Communicate directly with publishers, publicists, agents, and author teams
• Manage event logistics in alignment with publishing expectations and marketing strategies
• Maintain professionalism and discretion in all industry interactions

Vendor & Logistics Management

• Source and manage vendors, contracts, and payment schedules
• Oversee event setup, staff coordination, event flow, and guest management
• Be on-site to ensure seamless execution and high hospitality standards

Budget Oversight

• Track event spending and manage overall budgets

Post-Event Reporting

• Ensure client and publisher satisfaction
• Provide reports and analysis on event success

Team Leadership & Collaboration

• Supervise and manage the event team
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams on promotional efforts
• Delegate effectively while maintaining high service standards

Schedule Requirements

• Flexible availability required
• Evenings and weekends are essential as event schedules demand

Who You Are

You are calm under pressure.
You are detail-obsessed without losing sight of the big picture.
You thrive in high-expectation environments.
You love books, publishing, and the magic of bringing authors and readers together.