Director of Retail Operations

AKIRA DIRECTOR OF 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 35+ stores across the United States, as well as a thriving eCommerce business (shopAKIRA.) 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

Director of Retail Operations

Location

Chicago HQ | Travel : ~50-75% across ~40 stores + new openings

Reports to : VP of Retail (or COO) – works closely with Retail Sales Director, Finance, Supply Chain / IT, Visual / Facilities

Overview

This role is the operational engine behind our store network. You will lead the design, standardization, and execution of store operating systems and processes - enabling our field sales organization to operate at maximum effectiveness. Your mission : deliver operational efficiency, inventory discipline, store readiness and cost control, in partnership with the Director of Retail Sales.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Standards & Playbooks

• Define and maintain store operating standards and playbooks (store layout, visual, omni-fulfilment, service, health & safety, loss prevention).
• Lead audit programme : regular store visits, compliance / standards reviews, visual & operations audits, corrective action tracking.
• Build repeatable processes for new opening readiness, remodels, back-of-house workflows, POS / tech enablement.

Inventory & Supply-Chain Execution

New Store Openings & Scaling

Operational Analytics & Cost Control

Technology & Systems Enablement

Team Leadership & Field Support

Qualifications & Profile

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

At AKIRA, we are committed to providing fair and transparent compensation practices. The starting pay range for this position is $135,000 to $205,000 annually, based on factors such as experience, qualifications, skills, internal equity, and market conditions. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the interview process.