In a bold move that underscores its commitment to growth and innovation, Books-A-Million, the nation’s second-largest bookstore chain, has announced significant promotions within its real estate division. Rick Franz has been elevated to the position of Executive Vice President of Real Estate, while Jack Fleming steps into the role of Vice President of Real Estate. This strategic restructuring also welcomes Pete Turner as the new real estate manager, a move poised to bolster the company’s expansion efforts.

Rick Franz, who joined Books-A-Million in 2024 as a consultant, has been lauded for his strategic insight and leadership within the real estate department. With a robust background that includes previous roles as VP of real estate at Ulta Beauty, Wild Oats Markets, and Dick’s Sporting Goods, Franz is well-equipped to lead store positioning and growth in his new capacity.

Jack Fleming, previously the real estate manager at Books-A-Million’s Preferred Growth Properties subsidiary, will now focus on managing existing assets and identifying opportunities for new store openings. His prior experience in the financial services department at First Citizens Bank adds a layer of financial acumen to his role.

The addition of Pete Turner, a recent hire from April 2025, further strengthens the team. Turner, an Auburn University graduate, brings experience as a commercial underwriter at Regions Bank. His role as real estate manager will involve overseeing new projects and contributing to the company’s strategic goals.

These appointments follow the recent appointment of Brandon Waters as Chief Information Officer in February 2025, highlighting Books-A-Million’s dedication to enhancing its leadership team. In a statement, the company expressed confidence in the new leadership, stating, “As Books-A-Million continues to expand and innovate, we are confident that their leadership will play a pivotal role in our continued success.”

Books-A-Million operates over 200 stores across 32 states, alongside its e-commerce platform, Booksamillion.com. The chain’s latest moves are part of a broader strategy to solidify its position in the competitive retail landscape.

For more information, you can read the original article on Chain Store Age. Additionally, explore how Books-A-Million is taking same-day delivery national with Walmart.

Books-a-million storefront

More Articles

Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!

Mortgage Applications Slip as Mixed Market Signals Create Uncertainty

The latest MBA survey shows overall mortgage applications dipping 1.4% during the holiday week, even as purchase activity rose on a seasonally adjusted basis. Refinances cooled despite lower rates, which averaged 6.32% for a 30‑year fixed. Rising ARMs and shifting buyer behavior highlight a market still trying to stabilize amid softening economic indicators.

Commercial Real Estate Deal Growth Stalls Heading Into 2026

October delivered the first year‑over‑year slowdown in commercial real estate deals in nearly two years, signaling a growing disconnect between buyers and sellers as elevated rates and policy uncertainty reshape pricing expectations. While multifamily cooled and office assets traded at steep discounts, hotels and adaptive‑reuse projects stood out as rare bright spots. For professionals across real estate, mortgage, and finance, the shifting landscape underscores the need for sharper analysis and continued education heading into 2026.

US Workers’ Comp Market Faces Higher Costs and New Regulations Heading Into 2026

The US workers’ compensation market is bracing for a pivotal year in 2026 as medical inflation, rising claim complexity, and tightening state regulations push costs higher for insurers and employers. With cumulative trauma injuries increasing and states expanding presumption laws—especially for first responders and healthcare workers—underwriting strategies are being forced to evolve. At the same time, technology like predictive analytics and workplace wearables is reshaping loss prevention, while more organizations turn to captives and hybrid programs to manage volatility.

How Florida Realtors Quietly Built a Tech Empire That Now Powers North American Real Estate

Over the past 25 years, Florida Realtors has transformed from a simple support desk into one of the most influential tech ecosystems in real estate. Through member‑driven tools like Tech Helpline, Form Simplicity and the new Sabal Sign platform, the association has built a stable, fully integrated system used by agents across the U.S. and Canada. Free from outside investors and focused entirely on member needs, Florida Realtors has quietly become a tech powerhouse—proving that long-term vision, not venture capital, is what truly drives innovation in the industry.

Flood Disclosures Could Reshape Massachusetts Real Estate as Climate Risks Rise

Massachusetts is poised for a major shift in home‑sale transparency as Gov. Maura Healey pushes for mandatory flood disclosures — a change that could impact buyers, sellers, and real estate professionals statewide. With worsening climate conditions and growing flood damage in communities like Winthrop and Salem, the proposal aims to ensure buyers understand a property’s true risk before they commit. The move has wide support from insurers and municipalities, while the real estate industry remains split over its potential impact on the state’s long‑standing “buyer beware” culture.

Florida’s Insurance Market Begins to Stabilize as New Reforms Take Effect

Florida’s long‑troubled property insurance market is finally showing early signs of recovery. Thanks to recent legislative reforms that reduced litigation and attracted new insurers, some homeowners are even seeing their premiums drop. These improvements are boosting consumer confidence and creating new opportunities for real estate, mortgage, and insurance professionals across the state.