Chief executive officer, Melbourne

BookPeople – the Australian Booksellers Association

Join the Next Chapter: CEO Australian Booksellers Association

Are you ready to help lead the bookselling sector in Australia?

The management committee of the BookPeople is seeking a dynamic CEO to help shape the next chapter of our industry.

BookPeople is the national association dedicated to supporting Australia’s bookshops and promoting a love of books and reading. Based in Melbourne, we’ve proudly advocated for local bookshops for over 100 years, helping them thrive and connect with their communities. We support our members through industry advocacy, training, and major national initiatives such as our annual conference, Love Your Bookshop Day, a nationwide buying group, seasonal reading guides and the Kids’ Reading Guide.

As the book industry navigates a time of transformation, we are looking for a strategic, energetic, forward-thinking and people-focused leader to guide the organisation—and our sector—into the future.

What We’re Looking For

We want someone who can inspire confidence, engage a diverse membership, and champion the value of Australian bookshops in a changing cultural and retail landscape. You’ll be the voice of the BookPeople across the country—and occasionally, the globe.

You will bring:

• Broad experience in bookselling or the wider book industry
• A strong grasp of public policy, advocacy, and industry representation
• Experience leading a passionate membership base
• Ability to lead a small, high-performing team with empathy and vision
• Strong project management and program delivery skills
• Confidence in public speaking and advocacy
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management
• Financial literacy and budgeting experience

You will get:

• A national leadership role at the heart of Australia’s bookselling
• A collaborative Board of experienced booksellers
• Opportunities to shape industry direction and policy
• Occasional international travel
• A flexible, competitive salary of $140K -$160K, based on experience

How to Apply
If you’re a passionate leader ready to elevate the voice of Australian booksellers, send your cover letter and application to gavin@matildabookshop.com.au by 21st of August, 2025.

Category: Jobs