AKIRA Divisional Merchandise 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 fast-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: Divisional Merchandise Manager

Location: Chicago, IL

Position Overview:

The Divisional Merchandise Manager is responsible for developing and executing merchandise strategies along with growing the overall sales volume and profit of the apparel/accessories division. This role partners closely with Buying, Design, Product Development, and key stakeholders to ensure assortments align with customer demand, brand vision, and financial goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute merchandise strategies aligned with customer needs, sales objectives, and overall brand direction

• Drive growth across all categories by setting strategic goals and performance targets

• Train, mentor, and coach team members in a fast-paced environment

• Partner with Design and Product Development to ensure pricing, margins, and cost structures meet business requirements

• Inspire fashion and style through compelling product storytelling and presentation

• Facilitate production planning across sourcing partners and vendors

• Understand, manage, and oversee Open-to-Buy (OTB) planning

• Support brick-and-mortar and eCommerce teams with marketing and promotional strategies for exclusive drops, launches, and new product introductions

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Fashion, Business, or a related field

• 4+ years of experience in a Merchant or Merchant Manager role

• Proven ability to lead and develop teams in a fast-paced environment

• Strong understanding of fashion trends, fit, and overall aesthetic

• Strategic thinker with strong planning and timeline management skills

• Ability and willingness to travel as needed
  

The Ideal Candidate Is

• Highly motivated with an exceptional work ethic and ability to meet tight deadlines

• An excellent written and verbal communicator

• Extremely organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through

• Comfortable multitasking and prioritizing in a dynamic, fast-moving environment

• A collaborative, responsive, and team-oriented leader

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