Director of Human Resources

Director of Human Resources (HR Director) - AKIRA

Location : Hybrid between Chicago, IL (Headquarters) & Bolingbrook

Job Type : Full-Time, Onsite

About AKIRA

Founded in 2002, AKIRA opened its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago and has grown to 30+ stores nationwide plus a thriving eCommerce business at shopAKIRA . Our success is built on bold creativity, teamwork, and Other-Worldly Customer Service . Every team member is encouraged to Act and Think Like an Owner , shaping our culture and driving growth.

The Opportunity

AKIRA is seeking a Director of Human Resources (HR Director) to lead our People Operations across retail, warehouse, and corporate locations. You'll oversee all aspects of HR strategy, including recruiting, compliance, compensation, employee engagement, and culture. This is both a strategic and hands-on leadership role for someone passionate about building high-performing teams.

What You'll Do

As our senior HR leader, you will :

Lead and scale the Human Resources department supporting 1,000+ employees.

Partner with executives on workforce planning, employee relations, and organizational design.

Oversee all HR operations, including recruiting, onboarding, payroll, and benefits administration.

Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws.

Manage performance management and employee engagement initiatives that reinforce AKIRA's culture.

Drive diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) programs that strengthen our people-first mission.

Collaborate with external partners and HCM vendors (such as iSolved) to optimize HR systems and data.

Develop training programs that promote career growth, retention, and leadership development.

Who You Are

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (HR certification preferred).

10+ years of progressive HR experience, including 5+ in HR operations or payroll management.

Background in retail, hospitality, or multi-unit business environments.

Expert in HRIS and ATS systems (iSolved, ADP, or similar).

Strong understanding of employment law, compliance, recruiting, and people development.

Strategic thinker who balances high-level planning with practical execution.

Excellent communication and leadership skills, with a passion for people and culture.

Our Culture

At AKIRA, our people are everything. We believe in empowering employees, celebrating individuality, and creating an inclusive workplace where everyone thrives. We're a fast-paced, creative team that values ownership, collaboration, and innovation.

Compensation & Benefits

Starting salary range : $110,000–$150,000 annually, based on experience and qualifications.

We offer full medical, dental, vision, life, LTD, 401(k), FSA / HSA, transit benefits, and an employee discount.

If you're an HR professional who thrives in a growing, fashion-forward company and wants to make a direct impact, we'd love to meet you.

Apply today and join AKIRA's next chapter of growth!