AKIRA Visual Operations Manager

In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 40+ 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: Other-Worldly Customer Service and 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: Visual Operations Manager

Position Overview:

As a Visual Manager, you oversee all visual and operational aspects of the store, leading a team of 4 to 20 individuals depending on size. This role combines creativity and strategy—you interpret sales data, design impactful displays, and craft visual stories that drive results. Success requires balancing artistry with analysis, taking decisive action through strategic merchandising to ensure both aesthetic appeal and sales performance.

Essential Functions:

• Independently prioritize in-store merchandising tasks each day by assessing aesthetic needs, analyzing and incorporating weekly selling data

• Effectively execute all in-store merchandising tasks according to company guidelines, including but not limited to: floor layout adjustments, floor moves, rack merchandising, table displays, wall displays, accessory displays, sales floor and window mannequin styling, promotional displays, etc.

• Communicate regularly with store management staff to ensure merchandising is meeting the needs of the business and aiding in sales

• Partner with the leadership team to ensure standards are being kept up throughout the store, and teach and participate in all tasks. Complete various cleaning tasks when changing displays (waxing racks, dusting tables, adjusting lighting after floor moves, etc.)

• Complete daily and weekly visual and operations evaluations. Summarizing the merchandising tasks and looking forward to what's next to drive the business forward

• Elevate the customer experience not only through the store environment visually, but also by supporting sales. Ensure customers are being delivered the AKIRA styling experience by connecting customers to stylists and supporting in running the floor, cash wrap, and fitting rooms to minimize wait times and get them in and out with a smile on their face

• Support the Leadership team by participating in all functions of the business, including talent recruitment & performance management

Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years of experience in visual merchandising

• Strong knowledge of fashion and current trends

• Efficient and quick-paced, whether working independently or as part of a team

• Willingness to work early mornings and/or occasional late nights

• Excited to contribute to a dynamic and fun work environment

• Excellent organizational, communication, and time-management skills

• Flexible with scheduling, including extended hours when needed

Physical Requirements:

• Move product, supplies and/or boxes repetitively; ability to push, pull, lift a maximum of 50 lbs. based on needs of the role

• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods of time, including a 10-12 hour shift

Travel:

• Open to occasional travel to support other stores

Benefits and Perks:
AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full-time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet Insurance, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 401(k), and a generous employee discount. We’re committed to internal growth, providing meaningful development and career advancement opportunities.

Compensation:
At AKIRA, we are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Compensation for this position will be determined based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.

Job Type: Full-Time