Literacy Initiatives Manager

Company: Literacy Mid-South
Location: Memphis
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description Salary: $56,000.00 - $63,000.00 per year About Literacy Mid-South For 50 years, Literacy Mid-South has adapted its programs, leadership, and even its name, while staying true to its original mission: bringing the gift of literacy to the people of the Mid-South. Founded in 1974 to help low-literate adults gain essential reading skills, Literacy Mid-South has since expanded its mission to support learners of all backgrounds and ages. Today, in addition to adult and student literacy programs, LMS serves as a convener and core collaborator for organizations working to improve literacy outcomes across the region. As we approach our 50th anniversary, Literacy Mid-South is positioned to become a regional literacy intermediary, bridging literacy goals across multiple sectors. Position Summary The Literacy Initiatives Manager is responsible for leading and executing Literacy Mid Souths community-based literacy strategy, with a primary focus on book distribution, literacy best practices, community engagement, and the creation of literacy-rich environments. This role ensures that all literacy initiatives are high-quality, culturally responsive, data-informed, and aligned with organizational goals to improve literacy outcomes across the region. The Literacy Initiatives Manager oversees book selection and distribution, develops literacy resources and materials, designs and implements literacy campaigns and events, manages key community partnerships, and ensures that all literacy spaces and programs reflect best practices in early literacy, family engagement, and equitable access to books. This is a highly collaborative, externally facing role that blends strategy, program execution, relationship management, and creative leadership. Key Responsibilities Literacy Strategy & Program Leadership Lead the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of community based literacy initiatives and programs. Ensure all literacy programming aligns with evidence-based best practices in early literacy, family literacy, and reading engagement. Collaborate with internal teams to align literacy initiatives with organizational goals, grant requirements, and community needs. Book Selection & Distribution Serve as the primary lead for selecting high-quality, culturally relevant, age appropriate book titles for all Literacy Mid-South book distribution programs. Oversee the planning and execution of large-scale book distribution efforts, including community events, school partnerships, and special initiatives. Maintain strong knowledge of diverse authors, literacy trends, and high-impact titles to ensure inclusive and representative book access. Work closely with operations, logistics, and volunteers to ensure smooth fulfillment, inventory management, and distribution processes. Literacy-Rich Spaces & Environments Develop, design, and maintain literacy-focused spaces (e.g., Pinwheel Playrooms, community literacy hubs, partner sites) that encourage reading, exploration, and family engagement. Provide guidance and support to community partners in creating and sustaining literacy-rich environments. Ensure spaces are welcoming, inclusive, and aligned with literacy development best practices. Literacy Materials & Resource Development Create, curate, and maintain high-quality literacy materials, toolkits, tip sheets, and family resources to support reading at home and in the community. Collaborate with marketing/communications staff to develop content for Best Book Choice campaigns, Book of the Month features, and literacy awareness efforts. Ensure all materials are culturally responsive, accessible, and aligned with literacy standards and research. Campaigns, Events & Community Engagement Plan and lead literacy-focused campaigns such as Best Book Choice initiatives, reading challenges, and awareness efforts. Design and implement literacy nights, family engagement events, community reading events, and partner-based literacy activities. Represent Literacy Mid-South at community events, meetings, and partner sites as a literacy ambassador and subject-matter resource. Partnerships & Relationship Management Build and maintain strong relationships with schools, community organizations, early childhood providers, libraries, and other partners. Serve as the primary point of contact for literacy-related partnerships and requests. Collaborate with partners to co-design literacy initiatives that meet community needs and align with shared goals. Assessment, Data & Continuous Improvement Collect and analyze data related to literacy programming, book distribution, and community engagement efforts. Monitor outcomes and impact to inform program improvements and storytelling. Work closely with data/evaluation staff to track participation, reach, and literacy related outcomes. Use feedback from families, partners, and participants to continuously improve program quality and relevance. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with communications, development, and volunteer teams to ensure alignment and strong execution of literacy initiatives. Support grant reporting, storytelling, and impact documentation related to literacy programs. Contribute to organizational planning, strategy sessions, and cross-departmental projects as needed. Desired Qualifications Education: Bachelors degree required; Masters degree preferred in Education, Literacy, Social Work, Public Administration, or related field. Experience: 35 years of experience in literacy programming, education, community engagement, or related nonprofit work. Strong knowledge of literacy development, reading engagement strategies, and best practices in family and community literacy. Experience with book selection, curriculum/resource development, or literacy focused programming. Demonstrated experience managing community partnerships and external relationships. Excellent communication, organization, and project management skills. Culturally responsive, equity-centered approach to community work. Ability to manage multiple initiatives, timelines, and stakeholders simultaneously. Passion for literacy, education, and community impact. Skills & Core Competencies: Literacy Expertise & Best Practices Strategic Program Design & Implementation Relationship Management Community Engagement Project & Event Management Cultural Responsiveness & Equity Mindset Creative Thinking & Innovation Data-Informed Decision Making Collaboration & Teamwork Other Requirements: Must be able to pass a background check. Availability to work evenings and weekends, as required. Must be able to lift at least 30 lbs and sit or stand for extended periods. Work Environment Hybrid role with some in-office work, on-site school visits, remote work, and community engagement. Flexibility in scheduling with occasional evening or weekend commitments for events or training. Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $56,000 $63,000 annually New hires are typically brought in between the range minimum and midpoint, depending on qualifications, internal equity, and budget. Benefits: Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance Generous paid time off (PTO) Competitive benefits package designed to support work-life balance and employee well-being Schedule & Location Schedule: Monday to Friday Flexibility Requirement: Occasional evenings and weekends may be required to support community events, literacy programs, and staff training. Work Locations: Multiple locations including main office and designated training or meeting locations Position Type: Full-time, exempt

Keywords: Literacy Mid-South, Jonesboro , Literacy Initiatives Manager, Customer Service & Call Center , Memphis, Arkansas