Powell's Books, Portland Ore., has promoted COO Miriam Sontz to the position of CEO. She replaces Emily Powell, who has been serving as CEO since 2010 and now plans to step fully into her role as owner.
"In Miriam's 28 years at Powell's she has held many roles--from Beaverton store manager to co-CEO," Powell noted in a memo to employees. "Powell's owes much of its arc through life to Miriam--to her persistent, loving dedication to Powell's, to bookselling, and to integrity. Those of you who work with Miriam will also know that she is a truly remarkable leader and mentor. I am grateful for her many contributions and thrilled that she will now take the reins as Powell's CEO."
Sontz expressed excitement about her new role and the company's future: "I look forward to steering Powell's Books forward through our ever-changing book industry. We are well-positioned to continue efficiencies around operations so we can focus on our customers. Highlighting and expanding the unique experience people have when shopping at Powell's is our top priority."
Powell's Books remains a family-owned business, with Emily as the third-generation owner of the company, which was founded by her grandfather Walter and managed for decades by her father, Michael.
