Senior Buyer - AKIRA/shopAKIRA.com

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 35+ 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

Senior Buyer

Location

Chicago, IL (On-site)

Overview:

AKIRA is searching for an experienced Senior Buyer to join our Product Team in Chicago! In this role, you will play a pivotal part in shaping our product assortment, driving sales, and enhancing our brand's market presence. You will leverage your expertise in market analysis, vendor relationships, and trend forecasting to curate a compelling product mix that resonates with our target audience. Collaborating closely with Design, Planning, and Marketing, you will ensure our product is innovative and aligns with the latest fashion trends and client preferences. The ideal candidate is a strategic thinker with a strong sense of style, excellent negotiation skills, and a passion for driving business growth in a fast-paced retail environment.

Essential Functions:

• Deeply understand the target audience and consistently curate products that resonate with our customers.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with vendors, scheduling regular meetings to stay updated on the latest samples.
• Offer clear brand strategy guidance to vendors and provide timely design direction to ensure product lines align with current market trends.
• Set and meet monthly goals for developing new styles, demonstrating a proactive approach to product innovation.
• Make informed decisions on product or fabric adjustments to ensure styles meet quality standards and appeal to our customer base.
• Conduct thorough research to stay informed about the latest trends and fabric developments, integrating this knowledge into purchasing decisions.
• Review and approve samples from vendors, ensuring high standards of quality and consistency are maintained.
• Lead and support the buying team, fostering collaboration and ensuring alignment with company goals.
• Facilitate weekly sales meetings to discuss performance, share insights, and strategize for future success.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Apparel/Fashion Merchandising, Business Administration, or related field preferred
• 5+ years in apparel buying, with a focus on understanding customer preferences and market trends
• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain relationships with vendors
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret sales data and make informed buying decisions

Diversity & Inclusion:

At AKIRA we believe that treating everyone in a first-class manner is essential to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects our values and our community. This is deeply rooted in our company's principles, culture, and fashion. We continuously strive to cultivate a company where employees feel a sense of belonging and contribute to a culture that values differences, ideas, and experiences. Our unique workforce is directly linked to our success and makes us stronger collectively.

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