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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) serves as the senior executive leader of the University Book Store (UBS) in Seattle Washington, and concurrently holds the roles of Book Store Trustee and Member of the Board of Directors. The CEO is responsible for the overall leadership, management, profitability, and strategic direction of UBS, ensuring that the organization operates in alignment with its mission, fiduciary obligations, and the interests of the beneficiaries of the University of Washington Book Store Trust.
The CEO of the UBS is a unique role, operating comfortably at the intersection of retail, real estate, and university partnership. They report directly and solely to the Board of Directors and are expected to foster strong relationships across the University community, represent the Book Store with professionalism and integrity, and maintain the institution's standing as a highly regarded partner of the University.
University Book Store, Inc.
Seattle, Washington
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Governance
- Serve as CEO, Book Store Trustee, and Member of the Board of Directors, upholding all related fiduciary and governance responsibilities.
- Lead all business and operational functions of UBS, with full profit and loss leadership, strategic decision-making authority, and accountability for overall organizational performance.
- Provide the Board with timely, accurate, and comprehensive information needed for oversight, fiduciary responsibilities, and informed decision-making.
- Execute Board directives and provide all requested follow-up information.
- Maintain open, transparent, and consistent communication with the Board.
Strategic Planning & Execution
Develop, articulate, and implement a clear vision and strategic plan for the long-term success of the Book Store. Identify, evaluate, and pursue opportunities for growth, innovation, and enhancement of business operations. Respond effectively to financial challenges, marketplace shifts, and threats to the business. Lead and participate in long-term planning initiatives supporting the sustainability and evolution of the Book Store. Prepare and maintain a comprehensive succession plan for key leadership positions.Operational & Business Management
Oversee all UBS personnel, including hiring, evaluation, development, and organizational structure. Foster a culture of accountability, high performance, and continuous improvement. Ensure adherence to all policies, procedures, and legal requirements. Oversee effective management of all Book Store tenant leases, including renewals, compliance, rent collection, and resolution of tenant issues. Develop and execute a strategic leasing plan that maximizes occupancy, aligns tenant mix with organizational objectives, and enhances long-term asset value. Partner with real estate, finance, and operations teams to evaluate development and expansion opportunities, ensuring projects align with market demand and financial goals. Monitor and optimize the profitability of the Book Store’s real estate portfolio through data-driven analysis of lease performance, operating costs, and revenue opportunities. Implement standardized processes for lease administration, tenant communications, and property performance tracking to ensure consistency and operational efficiency.Relationship Management & Representation
Represent UBS with professionalism, integrity, and a high degree of responsiveness to stakeholders. Cultivate and sustain strong relationships with key campus constituents, university leadership, customers, community partners, and industry peers. Ability to navigate higher education governance structures, cultivate trust with university leadership, and maintain UBS autonomy while supporting UW’s mission. Ensure that the Book Store is held in high regard by the University and broader community. Engage in external activities that reflect favorably on UBS, including participation in charitable, educational, religious, trade, or community organizations, subject to Board approval and as long as they do not interfere with CEO responsibilities.Qualifications & Experience
- Extensive experience in retail, higher education business operations, nonprofit management, or a related sector.
- Demonstrated success in executive leadership roles with full profit and loss responsibility.
- Demonstrated success with business operations strategy, including rightsizing and long term real estate planning.
- Proven ability to lead complex organizations, manage diverse teams, and drive strategic initiatives.
- Strong financial acumen and operational expertise.
- Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
- High ethical standards and a commitment to fiduciary responsibility.
Other Requirements
- Devotion of full professional time and attention to the affairs of UBS.
- Adherence to confidentiality, non-compete, and non-solicitation obligations as defined by the Employment Agreement.
- Willingness to comply with all Board decisions and directives.
Compensation
- The CEO receives a competitive salary and benefits package, including:
- Annual base compensation in the range of $200,000 - $260,000
- Eligibility for performance-based annual bonus.
- Participation in all UBS employee benefit programs, including profit sharing.
- Paid vacation and additional standard benefits.
Apply
Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three references to: ceohire@ubookstore.com.
Priority applications date is Friday, January 9, 2025. Applications will be reviewed until the position is filled.
