A
Senior Buyer
full-time•Chicago
About this role
Senior Buyer
About AKIRA
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.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: 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.
Position: Senior Buyer - All Categories
Location: Chicago, IL (On-site)
Position Overview
The Senior Buyer – All Categories is responsible for leading the overall procurement and merchandising strategy across all product categories, including apparel, footwear, accessories, and emerging classifications. This role plays a critical part in shaping trend-forward, commercially successful assortments for both retail and eCommerce channels while maintaining alignment with the brand's vision and financial objectives.
The Senior Buyer will own assortment planning, sales forecasting, SKU and pricing strategies, and vendor partnerships, using data-driven insights to optimize performance. This role also provides leadership to the buying team and collaborates cross-functionally with Planning, Marketing, and Finance to drive sales growth, margin optimization, and inventory health across all departments.
Key Responsibilities:Develop and oversee comprehensive buying strategies across all product categories, including Apparel, Footwear, Accessories, and related classifications
- Curate compelling, trend-driven assortments aligned with customer demand, brand positioning, and seasonal direction
- Analyze market trends, sales performance, and customer insights to inform assortment and pricing decisions
- Manage open-to-buy, seasonal inventory planning, and SKU productivity to support business goals
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of Buyers and Assistant Buyers, fostering strong execution and professional growth
- Build and maintain strategic vendor relationships; negotiate pricing, terms, and delivery timelines to maximize margin and efficiency
- Partner closely with Planning and Finance to ensure pricing strategies support profitability and inventory turn goals
- Monitor inventory levels and oversee replenishment strategies to support in-stock positions and reduce risk
- Collaborate with Marketing on product launches, storytelling, and promotional initiatives
- Ensure cohesive alignment between in-store and eCommerce assortments and strategies
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's degree in Fashion, Business, or a related field
- 5+ years of buying or merchandising experience across multiple fashion categories
- Proven experience leading and developing a team and managing cross-functional initiatives
- Strong understanding of product development cycles and production timelines
- Exceptional negotiation skills with a track record of building productive vendor partnerships
- Advanced proficiency in data analysis, inventory management systems, and sales forecasting
- Strategic, analytical thinker with a strong fashion sensibility and understanding of consumer trends
- Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills
- Ability and willingness to travel if needed
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.
Employment Type: Full-time
What you'll do
- The Senior Buyer is responsible for leading procurement and merchandising strategies across all product categories, ensuring alignment with brand vision and financial objectives. This role includes assortment planning, sales forecasting, and vendor partnerships to optimize performance.
About AKIRA
AKIRA first opened in 2002 as a single women’s clothing boutique in the trendy Bucktown/Wicker Park neighborhood of Chicago and is owned by Eric Hsueh, Erikka Wang, Sarah Hughes, Gordon Liao and Mark Ricard. Over the years, AKIRA has expanded to over 40 stores, a thriving eCommerce website, and an expanding wholesale business. AKIRA now has stores in over 12 states with more on the way and offers a full line of women’s clothing, footwear, and accessories.
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.
We know that true success lies in the hands of passionate individuals who take risks, challenge conventional norms, and provide unforgettable experiences for our clients. With our unique product, we strive to be at the forefront of the fashion industry, setting new trends and redefining what it means to be fashionable.
But it's not just about the product. We are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where our employees can thrive and be themselves, always. We believe that by empowering our team members, we can foster a sense of ownership and pride, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to make a significant impact on our brand's journey. If you’re ready to launch a rewarding career that combines your love for fashion and your entrepreneurial spirit, you’ve come to the right place.
Ready to join AKIRA?
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does a Senior Buyer do at AKIRA?
As a Senior Buyer at AKIRA, you will: the Senior Buyer is responsible for leading procurement and merchandising strategies across all product categories, ensuring alignment with brand vision and financial objectives. This role includes assortment planning, sales forecasting, and vendor partnerships to optimize performance..
Is the Senior Buyer position at AKIRA remote?
The Senior Buyer position at AKIRA is based in Chicago, United States. Contact the company through Clera for specific work arrangement details.
How do I apply for the Senior Buyer position at AKIRA?
You can apply for the Senior Buyer position at AKIRAdirectly through Clera. Click the "Apply Now" button above to start your application. Clera's AI-powered platform will help match your profile with this opportunity and guide you through the application process.