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. Compensation: At AKIRA, we are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. Compensation for this position (Pay Range $135,000 - $205,000) 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