Junior Program Buyer and E-Commerce Coordinator

POSITION SUMMARY

The Program Buyer & E-Commerce Coordinator connects Kripalu’s educational mission with its retail experience by curating and managing book and other product selections that support on-campus and online programs, while also maintaining and growing Kripalu’s online shop.

This role serves as the primary liaison between the Shop and Kripalu’s Programing teams, ensuring that all program-related books/products are thoughtfully selected, ordered, and available for guests. This role also oversees the day-to-day operations of Kripalu’s online store, maintaining accurate listings, inventory, and product content.

SALARY INFORMATION

Hourly, Non – Exempt role

Min: 18.50  dollars – Max: 20 Dollars

SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS

• Requires communication across departments and occasional evening or weekend work tied to program cycles or product launches.
• On Campus work is required for this role 

ACCOUNTABILITIES

Program Buying

• Monitor the Kripalu Shop email inbox for incoming HubSpot forms and communications related to program book requests and updates.
• Update and maintain the Program Buying Spreadsheet with new submissions, book orders, deliveries, book signings, and all program-related details.
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of upcoming programs, including dates, product requests, and all other relevant information to prepare and merchandise accordingly.
• Regularly monitor product levels for upcoming programs to ensure all required titles and merchandise have been ordered and received in time.
• Communicate closely with Program Coordinators and buyers to address any situations related to programs, products, or logistics.
• Coordinate and monitor consignment orders with presenters, including tracking quantities, pricing, discrepancies, and post-program reconciliation.
• Track and analyze book sales to inform future program buying decisions and ordering practices.
• Maintain relationships with publishers, distributors, and independent authors.
• Coordinate with the Shop team to ensure program books/products are well displayed, stocked, and staff are informed about program connections.

E-Commerce Coordination

• Monitor online shop inventory levels, initiate stock transfers when quantities are low, and coordinate restocking plans with buyers.
• Work with Marketing to update featured items and online collections based on seasonality, programs, or campaigns.
• Add new products, including photos, descriptions, etc., on a rolling basis
• Monitor online orders and communicate with fulfillment and guest services as needed.
• Manage the online shop inbox, respond to customer inquiries, and promptly resolve any issues.
• Support alignment between in-person and online retail experiences, ensuring Kripalu’s values and aesthetics are consistently represented.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Demonstrates a strong commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, actively contributing to a welcoming and respectful environment for all.
• Able to manage multiple timelines, program schedules, and product orders simultaneously while maintaining accuracy across spreadsheets, communications, and inventory.
• Communicates clearly and respectfully with internal departments, presenters, publishers, and vendors; keeps all stakeholders informed and aligned.
• Anticipates needs, identifies potential gaps in product availability, and proactively resolves issues before they affect programs or sales.
• Builds and maintains positive relationships with presenters, program coordinators, and publishers, representing Kripalu’s mission and professionalism.
• Takes ownership of tasks from start to finish, ensuring books/products are ordered, received, displayed, and communicated in a timely manner.
• Embodies Kripalu’s core values of love, wholeness, unity, service, and evolution in all aspects of work and interaction.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

• Ability to lift, carry, and move products, boxes, and books weighing up to 25 pounds.
• Frequent walking, standing, bending, and reaching while handling books and merchandise.
• Extended periods of sitting or working at a computer while managing spreadsheets, email communications, and online shop content.
• Ability to safely handle books and merchandise and perform light physical tasks related to receiving and organizing stock.
• Visual acuity to read product information, spreadsheets, and digital content accurately.
• Proficient use of fine motor skills for handling merchandise and equipment.

MINIMAL QUALIFICATIONS

• 1 year of experience in administrative and financial tasks or similar responsibilities preferred.
• Skilled at communicating clearly and with tact, both in writing and in person.
• Ability to manage tasks in time-sensitive or high-pressure environments when required
• Ability to work independently
• Proficiency with inventory and e-commerce platforms preferred (e.g., Shopify, Yellowdog, or similar).
• Familiarity with publishing, book distribution, or consignment processes preferred.
• Collaborative and detail-oriented, with a passion for supporting Kripalu’s mission and guest experience.