AKIRA Senior Buyer

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.

Position: Senior Buyer - All Categories

Location: Chicago, IL (On-site)

Position Overview:

The Senior Buyer - All Categories will be responsible for leading the procurement and merchandising strategy across all product categories, including apparel, footwear, accessories, and more. This role ensures curated, trend-forward assortments for both retail and eCommerce that align with our brand identity and business goals. Responsibilities include sales forecasting, SKU planning, pricing strategy, and vendor relationship management. The ideal candidate will leverage data insights, lead a team, and collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, planning, and finance to drive sales and margin performance across all departments.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee buying strategies across all categories (Apparel, Footwear, Accessories, etc.)

• Curate product assortments aligned with trend forecasts and customer demand

• Analyze market trends and performance data to drive sales strategies

• Manage open-to-buy and seasonal inventory planning

• Lead and mentor buying team and assistant buyers

• Partner with vendors and negotiate terms to maximize margin and delivery timelines

• Work with planning and finance teams to manage pricing and profitability

• Monitor and manage inventory levels and replenishment needs

• Collaborate with marketing on product launches and promotional strategies

• Ensure alignment between in-store and online assortments

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree in Fashion, Business, or a related field

• 5+ years of buying/merchandising experience across multiple fashion categories

• Experience managing a team and leading cross-functional projects

• Strong understanding of product development and production timelines

• Excellent negotiation and vendor relationship skills

• Proficiency in data analysis, inventory systems, and sales forecasting

• Strategic thinker with a keen eye for fashion and consumer trends

• Strong organizational and communication skills

• Must be able to travel as needed

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