Institut Francais des Etats-Unis - Villa Albertine

As part of Villa Albertine's Books & Ideas Department, the Director of Albertine Books is responsible for the management, running, and development of the bookstore. She/he reports to the Director of the Books & Ideas Department.

Albertine Books is part of Villa Albertine, The French Institute for Culture and Education, which strengthens ties between the US, France, and the French-speaking world by connecting people and institutions in the spheres of culture and education. Tucked inside the historic Payne Whitney mansion, Albertine Books is the only bookshop in New York devoted solely to books in French and English with more than 14,000 contemporary and classic titles from 30 French-speaking countries. It also hosts events and a book club.

I. Develop the bookstore’s activity and further engage audiences:
a. Define the bookstore’s editorial and commercial policy and grow in-store and online sales; b. Cultivate new large client accounts;
c. Raise the bookstore’s profile, notably through regular production of custom merchandise;
d. Collaborate on all aspects pertaining to the production of events and author talks organized by the Books & Ideas Department and market these events to Albertine’s community.

II. Manage and operate the bookstore:
a. Curate a varied and relevant selection of books;
b. Manage the bookstore’s staff (two full-time employees and two interns);
c. Manage supply and logistics for the store: stock, orders, deliveries, and returns;
d. Manage major client accounts (schools, Alliance Françaises, book fairs, and more)
e. Supervise the monthly book club and occasionally moderate certain meetings.

III. Budget and finances:
a. Monitor sales and income, tracking growth and KPIs;
b. Create and manage the bookstore's budget;
c. Daily reconciliation of cash and receipts in conjunction with the accounting department.

IV. Participate actively in the bookstore’s daily operations:
a. Greet and provide recommendations to clients;
b. Process sales, returns, and other cash register-related duties;
c. Maintain order and organization in the space to ensure it remains tidy and welcoming.