Affiliate Marketing Specialist

Job Summary

Barnes & Noble is a leading book retailer with a rich history of innovation and expansion. The company operates approximately 700 bookstores nationwide, serves over 700 communities, and maintains a robust digital presence. Under CEO James Daunt and private ownership by Elliott Advisors, Barnes & Noble is experiencing strong momentum with plans to open approximately 60 new stores in 2026.

About the Role

Join our team as an Affiliate Marketing Specialist and help grow the Barnes & Noble and Paper Source affiliate marketing programs through strategic partnerships, performance optimization, and innovative marketing initiatives. We are on a mission to expand our network and collaborate with fellow book lovers, authors, crafters, DIY enthusiasts, party planners, and creators who share a deep connection with our brands.

Responsibilities

• Manage the day-to-day execution and optimization of the affiliate programs for Barnes & Noble, Paper Source, and SparkNotes
• Research, recruit, onboard, and cultivate relationships with new affiliate partners to scale the program with a focus on content publishers and influencers
• Develop and implement strategies to drive engagement and sales for the brands with a focus on profitability
• Manage affiliate program terms, commission structures, and partner communications through newsletters, individualized outreach, and ongoing relationship management
• Have a strong understanding of our product catalog and categories that are relevant for article inclusion
• Collaborate closely with our campaigns and commercial teams to align affiliate promotions with business priorities, product launches, and seasonal campaigns
• Build and maintain strong relationships with agencies, top affiliates, and strategic partners by communicating business and brand priorities & updates, sharing promotional opportunities, identifying growth opportunities, and negotiating strong partnership terms
• Analyze daily, weekly, and monthly affiliate performance reports and adjust strategies to hit business goals and channel KPIs
• Manage affiliate budget inclusive of commissions, placement fees, CPA rates, and bonuses while making data-driven recommendations to maximize return on investment
• Monitor industry trends, competitor affiliate programs, and emerging partnership opportunities to identify new avenues for program growth

Requirements

• 3-5 years of relevant affiliate marketing experience, preferably in an ecommerce environment
• Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, or related field
• Familiarity with affiliate marketing software and tracking tools such as Impact
• To be considered for this role, you must have a strong understanding of industry trends, regulations, and best practices

Qualifications

• Exceptional communication, relationship-building skills, problem-solving skills, and strong negotiation skills
• A highly motivated self-starter with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities
• A passion for books & reading
• A positive, personable, can-do personality who can be flexible and is team-oriented

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities
• Knowledge of affiliate marketing software and tracking tools

Benefits

• For those scheduled to work less than 20 hours per week: Employee Discount, EAP, Sick Pay
• For those scheduled to work between 20 and 29.99 hours per week: Employee Discount, EAP, Sick Pay, Paid Time Off including paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Company Paid Holidays, Transit, and 401(k) with Company Match
• For those scheduled to work 30 hours or more: Employee Discount, EAP, Sick Pay, Paid Time Off including paid Maternity and Parental Leave, Company Paid Holidays, 401(k) with Company Match, Comprehensive Health Benefits (Medical, Dental, and Vision), Healthcare and Dependent Care Spending Accounts, Healthcare Spending Account, Disability Benefits, Life Insurance, Transit, and Tuition Reimbursement

Pay

$85,000 - $95,000 annually, depending on experience, seniority, geographic locations, and other factors permitted by law.

Schedule

The position is Hybrid (work remotely with some days in our NYC office).