Assistant Buyer - Footwear

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.

The Position: Assistant Buyer - Footwear

Location: Chicago, IL

Position 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.

Responsibilities

Vendor Communication & Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliersCommunicate clearly with vendors on order status, product availability, delivery timelines, and issue resolutionMaintain and monitor Email & Wechat communication and managementReview 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 timeMonitor and follow up on open orders to address discrepancies, delays, or adjustmentsAssist 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-dateOrganize and maintain product databases, ensuring all footwear items are properly set up and trackedProvide Sales & Trend Analysis & recommendations to optimize the footwear assortment based on performance data

Sample Coordination

Organizing and maintaining sample displays and seasonal wallsRequest sample information related to cost and minimumsOrdering and tracking top of production and presale samplesReview QC reports and flag issues to buyersMarket 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 flowCoordinate with internal departments to support key merchandising and operational initiatives

Qualifications

1–3 years of experience in buying, merchandising, product coordination, or vendor management, preferably in footwear or fashionStrong organizational skills and attention to detailExcellent written and verbal communication skillsAbility to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environmentAnalytical 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 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

At AKIRA, we believe in breaking down the barriers of the traditional retail experience and embracing the individuality of both our team and our clients. We’re on the lookout for extraordinary individuals who thrive on creativity, innovation, and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Join our team and become part of a culture that values diversity, fosters personal growth, and encourages out-of-the-box thinking.