VolBooks Digital Course Materials Buyer - VolShop - UTK

Buyer for the acquisition, adoption, and delivery of digital course materials for the Total Access (TA) and Inclusive Access (IA) programs. Works closely with faculty, staff, and publishers to support affordability initiatives, ensure compliance, and maintain accurate system records. The role is essential in providing students with seamless access to affordable digital course materials through the Learning Management System (LMS).

Buying digital course materials

• Acquire digital course materials and licenses; negotiate with publishers and EdTech vendors.
• Ensure availability in multiple digital formats, support affordability, TA and IA programs.
• Utilize VitalSource and related systems to secure sufficient quantities each term.
• Set title allocations, process dynamic pricing changes, and establish IA retail pricing.
• Monitor ERP and VitalSource systems for accurate material listings.
• Update course timetables, enrollments, charge files, and apply holds using system reports.
• Perform daily and monthly reconciliations to ensure correct processing of charges and refunds.
• Manage digital activations, charge files, and delivery of materials through LMS.

Management of digital adoptions

• Collect adoption requests from instructors and departments for participation in TA and IA programs.
• Collaborate with faculty, staff, and campus entities to meet course material adoption deadlines.
• Verify and enter adoption information into the designated software system.
• Confirm compliance with HWOQ guidelines and finalize adoptions with instructors prior to activation.
• Manage and distribute information on all titles and classes participating in TA and IA programs.
• Establish and maintain a working calendar for stakeholders, including VolBooks staff, publishers, OIT, Library, instructors, Bursar, administrators, and software vendors.

Campus and vendor relations

• Maintain regular contact with campus departments and faculty to identify digital course material needs.
• Build relationships with faculty and staff, advocating for affordability initiatives on behalf of VolBooks and students.
• Collaborate with the Assistant Director to inform and educate faculty and staff on new options, strategies, and publisher initiatives for affordable and accessible course materials.
• Meet regularly with publisher representatives to identify prospects for TA and IA programs and stay informed on new products, editions, promotions, and changes in business practices.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS AND DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS

• Associates degree required
• Bachelor’s degree preferred
• 1 year working in a fast-paced retail environment required
• 1 year retail or college store buying required
• 3 years of college bookstore experience preferred
• 3 years of retail or college store buying preferred.