What are the responsibilities and job description for the Senior Buyer - Footwear position at AKIRA/shopAKIRA.com?
AKIRA Senior 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
Senior Footwear Buyer
Location
Chicago, IL (On-site)
Overview:
This role oversees procurement and merchandising, curating both online and brick and mortar assortments that align with the company’s sales strategy, brand identity, and consumer needs. It involves cross-functional collaboration in inventory management, product life cycle planning, seasonal and SKU planning, and replenishment. The role works closely with marketing and finance to develop pricing strategies, manage margins, and forecast sales. Building strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to enhance lead times and delivery is also essential. Leveraging data-driven insights, develops and executes strategies to drive growth in the footwear business.
Essential Functions:
- Product curation, purchasing
- Trend analysis and forecasting
- Inventory management
- Pricing strategy
- Vendor management
- Sales performance and data analysis
- Cost management and budgeting
- Team leadership and collaboration
Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree in Fashion, Business or a related field
- 4 years in buying and merchandising in fashion or footwear industry, with a proven track record of product selection, management, and sales forecasting
- 2 years in Product Development preferred
- Experience managing or mentoring a team of buyers or assistants and leading cross-functional teams in a fast-paced environment
- Production knowledge
- Analytical skills
- Negotiation skills
- Financial acumen
- Inventory management
- Attention to detail
- Communication skills
- Ability to think strategically regarding to planning, timelines, etc
- Must be able to travel
Benefits and Perks:
AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA, 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 In-Office
Seniority Level
Senior
Industry
Retail Apparel and Fashion
Employment Type
Full-time
Job Functions
Sales, Customer Service, Management, Skills
