Job Posting: SIBA Executive Director

SIBA is an industry leader, with a long history of innovative programming and public positioning on issues. The SIBA Executive Director is a visionary leader, blending creativity, strategic planning, and commitment to booksellers and bookselling. The next Executive Director will be expected to continue SIBA’s growth and impact on bookselling, and develop systems and programs to benefit our bookstore members. 

The Executive Director works remotely, supervising a team of four remote-working independent contractors for the various roles in the organization. The Executive Director reports directly to the SIBA board of directors. 

Salary range is $85, 000−$95,000 commensurate with experience. The benefits for health and retirement savings are negotiable. The work week is 40 hours, but the schedule is at the discretion of the Executive Director. Some evening and weekend work will be required. Benefits include two weeks’ vacation. The deadline for applicants is Nov. 29, 2026 with the goal of filling the position as soon as possible before the end of the year. 

The Executive Director must reside in or be willing to relocate to one of the states in the Association’s region (AL, AR, FL, GA, KY, LA, MS, NC, SC, TN, and VA). Travel is required for Association events, board meetings, national industry meetings, and visits to member bookstores. Bookstore owners / employees should know that a job offer will require the person to divest themselves of their store ownership & responsibility. 

We believe that a diverse team makes us stronger, smarter, and more innovative. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, walks of life, and perspectives, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for every employee. 

Key Responsibilities include: 

Leadership and Governance: 

  • Lead SIBA in collaboration with the Board and staff, aligning on mission, goals, and priorities for day-to-day operations and strategic growth initiatives. 
  • Facilitate board meetings, provide regular board communication, ensure board-informed decision-making, and oversee board member nominations and elections in collaboration with the Nominating Committee. 
  • Supervise and mentor staff, fostering development and a positive team culture; provide direction and oversight of projects for contract staff. 
  • Represent SIBA in industry collaborations. 
  • Advocate for the sustainability and growth of the book industry at large.
  • Serve as the main contact and face of SIBA with our bookseller members and publisher and industry partners. 

Financial Oversight: 

  • Develop and manage operating budgets, working in partnership with the Board and Finance Committee on tactical short- and long-term financial decisions. 
  • Oversee financial systems, including accurate bookkeeping and compliance with financial obligations. 
  • Manage banking and investment relationships, ensuring tax compliance.

Membership & Program Management: 

  • Create and improve programs for the benefit of booksellers and bookselling.
  • Collaborate with the ABA and other regional organizations on national and regional programs. 
  • Work with SIBA membership manager to solicit new members and engage current members. 
  • Ensure positive bookseller member engagement and oversee membership communication updates. 
  • Work with our consortium RAMP to create the Summer and Winter Catalog.
  • Work with SIBA team to manage the various awards, grants, and scholarship programs.
  • Work with SIBA team to ensure website and digital communications are current and user-friendly. 

Event Management: 

  • Plan and execute all SIBA events in the calendar year, ensuring smooth operations and engaging attendee experiences. 
  • Oversee logistics, registration, promotions, venue management, and on-site management. 
  • Manage author placement and sponsorships. 
  • Lead and organize the annual conference and related initiatives. 

About SIBA 

The Southern Independent Bookseller Alliance (SIBA) is a trade association representing independent bookstores and booksellers in the southern region. Its member bookstores (currently 300+ bookstores) are from the states of Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. Click here to view the Bylaws. 

Please email your resume to sibaedsearch@gmail.com.