Powell’s Books, which laid off 31 staff members in February, announced Thursday that it has reorganized its management team and in the process eliminated eight executive positions. According to Powell’s, the new plan will be implemented in conjunction with the retirement of veteran CEO of Operations Ann Smith, who has served in a primary leadership role at the company over the past 26 years. Under the reorganization, Emily Powell will serve as president and CEO of Powell’s Books, overseeing marketing and store operations while Miriam Sontz expands her role as Chief Operating Officer to now include management of inventory, IT, finance, and facilities.
“It is our goal to have the right book in the right place at the right price,” said Emily Powell in a statement. “We can accomplish this goal by integrating similar functions throughout the company that operated independently in the past. We have also renewed our focus on customers as part of this process.”
A spokesperson said the job cuts made today were limited to the eight managers.
