About this position
In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 30+ 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.
Overview
The role of Assistant Buyer - Footwear is to support the Buying and Merchandising team. This role is ideal for someone looking to build a career in buying, product creation, or production within a fast-paced retail/fashion environment. We are looking for someone that is extremely detail oriented, organized and has great work ethic.
Location: Chicago, IL - Onsite (Not a remote role)
Responsibilities
Vendor Communication & Relationship Management
Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers
Communicate clearly with vendors on order status, product availability, delivery timelines, and issue resolution
Maintain and monitor Email & Wechat communication and management
Review vendor invoices daily and ensure all data entry of purchase orders are accurate. Flagging discrepancies with the buying team to resolve asap
Purchase Order & Inventory Management
Accurately enter and track purchase orders, reviewing all attributions are correct. Ensuring all orders are processed efficiently and on time
Monitor and follow up on open orders to address discrepancies, delays, or adjustments
Assist in managing inventory levels, ensuring stock aligns with sales forecasts and customer demand
Product Data & SKU Maintenance
Support the Buyer in managing a broad assortment of SKUs, ensuring product information is accurate and up-to-date
Organize and maintain product databases, ensuring all footwear items are properly set up and tracked
Provide Sales & Trend Analysis & recommendations to optimize the footwear assortment based on performance data
Sample Coordination
Sample coordination and management – maintain sample displays and seasonal walls
Manage sample information related to cost and minimums
Generate, photograph and name samples
Ordering and tracking top of production and presale samples
Review QC reports and flag issues to buyers
Market and Trend Research through comp shopping presentations and trend analysis
Cross-functional Collaboration
Partner with allocation, planning, and logistics teams to ensure timely product delivery and smooth inventory flow
Coordinate with internal departments to support key merchandising and operational initiatives
Assist buyers with AI photo edits
Qualifications
1–3 years of experience in buying, merchandising, product coordination, or vendor management, preferably in footwear or fashion
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
Analytical mindset with an understanding of sales data and fashion trends
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, Onsite
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.
Location and commute
116 S Western Ave, Chicago, IL 60612.
Plan your route with Google Maps. Travel times and transportation options vary; confirm the work location with the employer before commuting.
How to apply
Review the vacancy and complete the application on the employer or recruitment partner’s website. Requisition ID: WJ-3250488818.