South Dakota State University (SDSU) is looking for a strategic, results-driven Director to oversee the on-campus bookstore, Jackrabbit Central, and its downtown and stadium locations. In this role, you’ll manage a multi-faceted retail operation—driving revenue, optimizing operations, and leading a talented team—all while delivering exceptional customer service to students, faculty, staff, and visitors. The bookstore is more than just a place to shop—it’s a central part of the campus and Brookings community, and you’ll play a key role in strengthening those connections. This position is located in Brookings, South Dakota and is a 12-month, full-time, benefits-eligible position. 

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $84 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities. Jackrabbit Central, located within the University Student Union, sells books, textbooks and school supplies along with a wide variety of SDState and Jackrabbit apparel and merchandise.

Must be authorized to work in the U.S.  Sponsorship is not available for this position.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Strategic Leadership & Financial Oversight

• Develops and implements annual strategic plans aligned with the University's mission and goals.
• Identifies opportunities for business development, process improvement, and new technologies.
• Advises the AVP of Business Services on budgets, capital planning, and financial impact of initiatives.
• Defines and monitors key performance indicators to drive financial and operational success.
• Ensures compliance with State, SDBOR, and University policies and regulations.
• Develops and manages annual store budgets, authorizes purchases, and oversees financial reporting.
• Monitors year-end inventory and audit processes.

Operational Management

• Oversees daily operations of Jackrabbit Central across all locations.
• Establishes and enforces policies related to procurement, loss prevention, shipping/receiving, and general store operations.
• Guides product selection, pricing strategies, advertising, and promotional campaigns.
• Maintains up-to-date knowledge of industry trends and best practices.
• Responds to customer inquiries and disputes with a service-first mindset.
• Prepares and analyzes reports related to sales, ordering, income, and expenditures.

Team Leadership & Talent Development

• Hires, trains, supervises, and evaluates staff performance.
• Builds a cohesive team environment through communication, coaching, and mentoring.
• Fosters a culture of service excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Sets performance standards, monitors progress, and provides recognition, feedback, or disciplinary action as needed.
• Promotes professional growth and career development for team members.
• Mentors junior staff in operational and technological competencies.

SALARY RANGE:

The minimum starting salary for this position is $75,000 with education and experience to be considered.

BENEFITS:

SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 10 hours of annual leave each month, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines. 

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Economics, Consumer Affairs or related completed by application date;
• At least five years of retail management experience, preferably within a university setting;
• Proven strategic leadership experience, with a focus on mentoring teams, developing future leaders, and aligning strategic initiatives;
• Demonstrated experience in budget management and financial oversight;  
• Ability to develop and interpret policies and procedures;
• Demonstrated experience with a creative customer service model of collaboration and support;
• Ability to collaborate effectively with all levels throughout the organization and maintain composure in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment;
• Ability to analyze complex information and navigate regulatory environments with attention to detail;
• Demonstrated proficiency with standard productivity software include Microsoft Office Suite or equivalent;
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal and oral/written communication skills; and
• Valid drivers license or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Experience with development of staff training programs.
• Experience with development and deployment of open-to-buy inventory strategies.
• University retail soft goods buying experience.
• Experience with Prism RBS systems.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: 

This position will close on May 5, 2025.