VP, Retail Operations

AKIRA VP, 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 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: 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: VP, 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.

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.

Job Type: Full-Time

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.

We may utilize AI-assisted and automated tools as part of the recruiting and hiring process. All employment decisions are made in compliance with applicable laws and without discrimination.