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 suppliers
• Communicate clearly with vendors on order status, product availability, delivery timelines, and issue resolution
• Maintain and monitor Email & Wechat communication and management
• Review 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 time
• Monitor and follow up on open orders to address discrepancies, delays, or adjustments
• Assist 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-date
• Organize and maintain product databases, ensuring all footwear items are properly set up and tracked
• Provide Sales & Trend Analysis & recommendations to optimize the footwear assortment based on performance data
  
  

Sample Coordination

• Organizing and maintaining sample displays and seasonal walls
• Request sample information related to cost and minimums
• Ordering and tracking top of production and presale samples
• Review QC reports and flag issues to buyers
• Market 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 flow
• Coordinate 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 fashion
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Analytical 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.

Job Type: Full-Time

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.

We may utilize AI-assisted and automated tools as part of the recruiting and hiring process. All employment decisions are made in compliance with applicable laws and without discrimination.

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.