Executive Director

Position Overview

NAB2 is seeking an experienced, mission-driven Executive Director (ED) to lead and grow

the organization in its early stages. Reporting to the Board of Directors, the Executive

Director will serve as the strategic and operational leader responsible for managing NAB2’s

programs, partnerships, fundraising, governance, and day-to-day operations.

This is a rare opportunity to help build a national movement from the ground up —

working closely with Black-owned bookstores, authors, publishers, and cultural leaders to

ensure the longevity of these essential community institutions.

Key Responsibilities

Organizational Leadership & Mission Execution

• Lead the development and execution of NAB2’s strategic plan, programs, and initiatives

• Ensure all activities align with the mission to promote literacy, amplify Black voices, and preserve culture

• Regularly engage and report to the Board of Directors, providing transparent updates on progress and priorities

• Build and sustain a values-driven organizational culture committed to service, equity, and impact

Operations & Administration

• Oversee daily operations, staff, and contractor management

• Develop and implement organizational policies and practices in accordance with the Bylaws

• Facilitate board elections and onboard new board, advisory council and business council members

• Manage contracts, legal compliance, and operational systems

• Maintain key databases, contact lists, and internal documentation

Finance & Fundraising

• Develop and manage NAB2’s annual budget in partnership with the Board Treasurer

• Monitor spending, process payments, oversee financial reporting and tax filings

• Lead fundraising efforts, including grants, individual giving, and sponsorships

• Cultivate relationships with philanthropic, corporate, and community funders

Membership Engagement

• Identify opportunities to leverage the collective bargaining power of NAB2’s member organizations to create financial benefits, such as vendor discounts, shared service agreements, or cooperative purchasing initiatives.

• Design and promote programs that serve NAB2 members, including bookstore owners, booksellers, and allies

• Communicate membership value and grow engagement through updates, content, and relationship-building

• Maintain member directories and oversee platforms that support member interaction Media Relations

• Serve as NAB2’s primary liaison with the media, working closely with public relations professionals to develop and execute media strategies.

• Coordinate press outreach, interviews, and media coverage that elevates NAB2’s mission and amplifies the visibility of Black-owned bookstores.Events & Campaigns

• Plan and execute NAB2 events, convenings, and campaigns — including the annual membership conference @ Black Lit Weekend and initiatives like the 90/10 Pledge or the National Black Bookstore Day resolution

• Secure and manage venues, suppliers, and event sponsorships

• Collaborate with the Board on national campaigns and visibility strategies

• Promote events through web, email, newsletters and social media

Research & Industry Insights

• Compile and analyze data on the Black bookstore and bookselling industry.

• Develop and disseminate an annual State of the Black Bookstore Market report to inform members, partners, funders, and the public.

Author & Publisher Engagement

• Build and manage a Black author engagement strategy, including pledge campaigns, bookstore tours, and public visibility

• Cultivate relationships with publishers, distributors, publicists, and independent presses

• Advocate for increased inclusion of Black-owned bookstores in tour planning, preorder campaigns, and catalog listings

Bookstore Sustainability & Support

• Identify and provide resources for digital infrastructure, including e-commerce tools, web presence, and POS systems

• Develop toolkits or partner opportunities to support bookstores with business operations, financial planning, and growth

• Serve as a liaison for crisis support or advisory services related to bookstore sustainability and succession planning

Cultural Programming & Literacy Initiatives

• Partner with bookstores to co-create or amplify community-based literacy programs, youth reading initiatives, and school partnerships

• Develop toolkits, microgrants, or shared resources to strengthen community literacy efforts

Storytelling & Cultural Preservation

• Support the documentation of Black bookstore histories through oral history projects, media partnerships, or legacy initiatives

• Oversee content that uplifts the cultural contributions and intergenerational impact of Black bookstores

Advocacy & Strategic Alliances

• Monitor cultural and industry issues affecting Black bookstores (e.g., censorship, access to publishers, gentrification)• Coordinate public statements or responses aligned with NAB2’s mission

• Build partnerships with aligned organizations (e.g., ABA, literary nonprofits, cultural institutions)

Qualifications & Experience Required:

• Proven leadership and organizational management experience

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

• Strong project management and strategic planning skills

• Experience managing budgets, operations, and people

• Deep understanding of nonprofit mission work and community-building

Preferred:

• Experience in the book industry, publishing, literacy, or cultural preservation work

• Experience building and scaling an organization from inception or an early stage.

• Experience partnering closely with a Board of Directors, including supporting governance, strategy, and organizational growth.

• Fundraising and grant writing experience

• Experience working with or in Black-led institutions or bookstores

• Marketing and communications experience

Compensation & Work Environment

• Salary Range: $90,000 – $120,000, depending on experience and location

• Benefits: Paid time off

• Work Location: Remote, with travel expected 10–15% of the time

The National Association of Black Bookstores is an equal opportunity employer. We value diverse backgrounds and experiences and are committed to building an inclusive, supportive team environment.