The European & International Booksellers Federation (EIBF) is pleased to announce the opening of recruitment for its next Director, following the departure of Julie Belgrado, whose decade of dedicated leadership has been central to EIBF’s growth and success.
EIBF represents the global voice of booksellers, championing book-friendly policies, leading EU and international projects, and supporting a dynamic network of national booksellers’ associations across Europe and beyond. Based in Brussels, the organisation engages closely with the EU policy environment to foster a resilient, diverse and sustainable bookselling sector worldwide.
We are now seeking an experienced, forward-looking Director to lead our Brussels secretariat and represent booksellers at the highest levels of EU and international policymaking. This is a unique opportunity to guide a small but highly active organisation with a strong mission and an engaged global community.
What we’re looking for
The ideal candidate will bring:
- Proven leadership experience in a cultural organisation, NGO, federation, policy, or lobbying environment
- A strong understanding of EU policymaking and the Brussels landscape
- Experience managing EU-funded projects and working with a broad range of stakeholders
- A collaborative, diplomatic approach to relationship-building across borders
- Excellent communication skills and confidence as a spokesperson
- Solid organisational, strategic and financial management capabilities
- A genuine affinity with books, reading, and the cultural sector
- Fluency in English; French highly preferred; other EU languages are an asset
About the role
- Location: Brussels
- Sector: Books, culture, EU policy
- Salary: €80,000 (or equivalent contracting arrangement)
If you are passionate about books, committed to supporting the cultural sector, and motivated by the prospect of leading an international, mission-driven organisation, we would be delighted to hear from you.
How to apply
To express interest or request further information, please email the hiring agency at eibf@madlinhanna.com. Deadline for applications is 9 January 2026.
| Attachment | Size |
|---|---|
| EIBF Director candidate package.pdf | 4.6 MB |