National Association of College Stores CEO Brian Cartier Accounces Retirement

“I am deeply honored to have had the opportunity to serve our industry for nearly 18 years,” Cartier said. “And I’m especially proud of what my NACS colleagues, members of our Board of Trustees past and present, and our thousands of members around the world have accomplished together during a time of both successes and challenges. It’s difficult for me to leave this incredible organization, our dedicated board members, and exceptional staff, but for me personally, it is the right time.”

Anthony Martin, president of the NACS Board of Trustees and director of the Houston Baptist University Bookstore in Houston, Texas, praised Cartier’s dedication and many contributions to the collegiate retail industry.

“Brian has guided our association with intellect and care through both good and challenging times for our industry,” Martin said in a letter to NACS members. “During Brian’s tenure the accomplishments of our association have been vast and have culminated with the formation and positioning of NACS subsidiary indiCo to proactively help promote and position the independent store model as integral to the campus mission.”

The NACS Board will immediately begin the search process of finding a new CEO. Martin said discussions will begin on selecting a search firm to assist, and the Board will seek input from membership and NACS staff on association needs.

A native of Cranston, R.I., Cartier came to NACS in August 1998, bringing to the association a broad background and more than 25 years of experience in not-for-profit management. As CEO, Cartier oversees day-to-day operations, finances, and management of the 225-person NACS staff and its four subsidiaries: NACSCORP, a national wholesale distributor and retail services provider; PartnerShip, a leading provider of shipping solutions to small- and medium-sized businesses; indiCo, a service and solution provider for independent college stores; and the NACS Foundation, NACS’ philanthropic education and research arm. Combined, they have an annual budget of more than $150 million.

Cartier earned a master’s degree in guidance and psychological services from Springfield College, Springfield, Mass., and a bachelor of arts degree from Rhode Island College, Providence, R.I. He is certified as an association executive by the American Society of Association Executives.