AKIRA Keyholder
In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 40+ 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: Keyholder
AKIRA Keyholders are fanatical salespeople, driven by goals and eager to take on leadership roles. As top performers, they support the assistant manager in achieving store objectives while assisting stylists and cashiers to ensure an exceptional customer experience from start to finish. Our mission is to make customers look and feel amazing! By leading through example and adopting an ownership mindset, our store leaders are relentless in pursuing both personal and store success.
Essential Functions:
Foster and maintain high store morale
Strengthen and uphold our selling culture through the 5 steps of selling
Enforce and adhere to all AKIRA policies
Consistently achieve and exceed individual sales goals
Drive the store to meet and surpass daily, weekly, and monthly sales targets
Lead by example, embodying and promoting AKIRA’s culture and 4 principles
Support the team by completing necessary operational tasks
Fulfill all end-of-shift responsibilities as directed by the Manager
Address customer questions and concerns with professi onalism and care
Maintain a clean and organized store environment
Qualifications:
1-2 years of experience in retail sales or a related customer-facing role is preferred
Proven track record as a top performer in sales is often a plus
Open availability and flexibility to meet the needs of the store
Genuine passion for fashion and staying on top of trends
High energy and a strong work ethic
Excellent communication and organizational capabilities
Experienced in visual merchandising and delivering exceptional customer service
Open-minded and positive when embracing new directions or changes
Dedicated to maintaining a clean and well-organized workspace
Dependable, honest, and trustworthy
Skilled in juggling multiple tasks and prioritizing workloads efficiently
Physical Requirements
Able to lift, push, or pull up to 50 lbs. as needed
Ability to stand and walk for long periods (up to 10–12 hour shifts)
Benefits & 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.

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.