AKIRA DIRECTOR OF RETAIL OPERATIONS

In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 35+ stores across the United States, as well as a thriving eCommerce business (shopAKIRA.com.) AKIRA is extremely well-poised for sustained growth as we continue to build a nationally recognized brand. AKIRA's culture has one very large, distinct difference from other high fashion competitors: Fanatical, Obsessive Attention to the consumer's needs and desires. The core principle for all employees at AKIRA is to Act and Think Like an Owner, and this belief can be reflected across all areas of the company.

The Position

Director of Retail Operations

Location

Corporate Headquarters in Chicago with 50-75% travel to 40 stores

Overview

Lead operational efficiencies and discipline for AKIRA Fashion's 40 stores. Focus on store layout, inventory management (60k+ SKUs), compliance, new store openings, budgeting, loss prevention, and customer experience in a fast-fashion environment. Collaborate with regional managers and use tools like StoreForce for tracking.

Key Responsibilities

• Operational Efficiencies: Develop and implement processes to streamline inventory, supply chain, and daily operations; identify cost-saving opportunities; monitor KPIs for performance.
• Store Discipline & Standards: Enforce consistent standards for store layout, merchandising, visual displays, cleanliness, and compliance; conduct regular audits during travel; oversee health, safety, and loss prevention.
• Inventory Management: Oversee handling of 40k+ active SKUs; optimize stock levels, turnover, replenishment, and vendor relations in fast-fashion cycle.
• New Store Openings: Plan, execute, and support launches of new stores, including site selection, layout design, setup, initial operations, and tech integration.
• Travel & Field Support: Visit stores frequently (50-75% time on road) to train staff, resolve issues, ensure alignment, and drive operational excellence.
• Technology Utilization: Leverage StoreForce and other tools for metrics; integrate CRM, POS systems; drive tech solutions for efficiency.
• Team Leadership: Recruit, train, develop, and motivate staff; coordinate with regional managers; provide guidance on best practices; build succession plans.
• Financial Management: Develop budgets, manage P&L, control costs, analyze financial metrics, and ensure profitability.
• Customer Experience: Define and enhance in-store customer journey, service standards, and engagement to build loyalty.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with merchandising, marketing, IT, and other teams for aligned strategies; communicate initiatives effectively.

Qualifications

• Experience: 8+ years in retail operations, preferably fast fashion or apparel; proven track record in multi-store management, new openings, and high-SKU environments.
• Skills: Strong in process optimization, inventory systems, leadership, analytics, P&L management; proficient with retail tech (e.g., StoreForce, POS, CRM); excellent communication and negotiation.
• Education: Bachelor's in Business, Retail Management, or related field; MBA preferred.
• Other: Willingness for extensive travel; analytical mindset; ability to drive change in dynamic, fast-paced environment; knowledge of industry trends and compliance.

Diversity & Inclusion

At AKIRA we believe that treating everyone in a first-class manner is essential to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects our values and our community. This is deeply rooted in our company's principles, culture, and fashion. We continuously strive to cultivate a company where employees feel a sense of belonging and contribute to a culture that values differences, ideas, and experiences. Our unique workforce is directly linked to our success and makes us stronger collectively.

Benefits And Perks

AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and employee discount. We are committed to encouraging internal development and providing significant career enrichment opportunities. Most importantly, what has propelled AKIRA's growth and success over the years has been the dynamic culture within the company - if you're filled with passion, have a strong desire to get things done, and if you want to go to a place where you know your work matters and where you can implement your ideas and decisions, then AKIRA just might be the place for you.

Job Type: Full-time

At AKIRA, we are committed to providing fair and transparent compensation practices. The starting pay range for this position is $135,000 to $175,000 annually, based on factors such as experience, qualifications, skills, internal equity, and market conditions. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the interview process.