Assistant Buyer - Books and Gifts

About Us:

Lovestruck Books is Cambridge's first-of-its-kind romance bookstore, celebrating love in all its forms. We're more than a bookstore; we're a diverse community where every reader belongs. Our expert staff curates an extensive collection, from classic tropes to groundbreaking narratives, ensuring everyone finds their perfect literary match.

Beyond our book-filled aisles, we offer a café and wine bar, romantic merchandise, and engaging events. Whether you're seeking a slow burn or a whirlwind affair, self-love or epic sagas, we'll guide you to your next favorite read. At Lovestruck, we believe everyone deserves to see themselves in great romance. Come explore without judgment and find your literary soulmate.

Role Overview:

We are seeking an enthusiastic and organized Assistant Book and Gifts Buyer to be responsible for selecting and ordering books, and assisting with ordering Gifts for an independent bookstore. This person will be able to carefully analyze sales data, market trends, and community interests to curate a diverse inventory that aligns with our community and store’s values. Additionally, this individual will maintain relationships with publishers and sales representatives to ensure optimal stock levels and customer satisfaction.

This is a full time/non-exempt position with hours ranging from 30-40/week.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Reviewing publisher catalogs and placing backlist orders via Edelweiss and Book Manager, optimizing Publisher promotions and sales.
• Supporting the Owner in creating and ordering front-list orders via Edelweiss and Book Manager.
• Meeting with publisher sales reps virtually and in-person to order forthcoming titles and Gift items.
• Collaborating with the Lovestruck Books Managers and Owner to develop an annual book budget and reviewing on a quarterly basis.
• Supporting Managers in communicating with local authors and managing store’s consignment program.
• Assisting Head Gifts Buyer with reorders and contributing new inventory suggestions.
• Supporting Head Gifts Buyer with developing and reviewing an annual Gifts budget.
• Transferring front-list orders in the Point-of-Sale system (Book Manager).
• Reporting weekly sales to IndieBound and the New York Times.
• Collaborating with the Events Manager to place event orders.
• Working with bookstore staff to place book orders in support of programs such as staff pics and temporary visual displays.
• Oversee special orders including business-to-business and educational sales (schools, nonprofits).
• Researching publishing trends and responding quickly to our local community’s buying habits and reading interests
• Communicating regularly with publishers and reps to stay on top of policy changes, discount schedules, store bestsellers, staff recs, co-op opportunities and all publisher-bookstore related promotions.
• Monitoring inventory levels, and, overseeing inventory counts
• Providing general day to day bookselling duties (on-site or off-site) such as handselling, cashiering, merchandising and receiving especially when staff is short-handed due to vacation, illness or seasonal factors, including but not limited to the Holiday season, Independent Bookstore Day and any other reasons.
• Any additional tasks as assigned on an as-needed basis.

• At least 1-2 years of previous book buying experience.
• Excellent communications skills, including in person, on the phone, and over email.
• Outstanding organizational abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage and maintain budgets.
• Deep understanding of literature, diverse genres, and emerging authors
• Ability to interpret sales data and market trends to make informed buying decisions
• Ability to efficiently manage inventory levels and ordering processes
• Ability to work independently and also as part of a team.
• Proficiency and comfort with necessary technology and platforms.
• Ability to lift boxes of books up to 50 pounds.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Empathy and compassion for people from all backgrounds and walks of life

Benefits:

Join Lovestruck Books and be part of our new venture. We offer health, dental and vision insurance, disability insurance, paid time off, and holiday pay.

Application Process:

To apply, submit a cover letter outlining your experience and a resume.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

At Lovestruck Books, we believe that diversity enriches our workplace and enhances our ability to serve our community. We embrace diversity in all its forms, including but not limited to age, race, ethnicity, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, religion, nationality, and educational background. We actively seek to attract, develop, and retain talented individuals from diverse backgrounds and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and supported.

Embark on this enchanting journey at Lovestruck Books. Apply now to be part of our story!