AKIRA VP, RETAIL SALES
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: 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: VP, Retail Sales
Location: Corporate Headquarters in Chicago with 50-75% travel to 40+ stores
Take charge of skyrocketing sales and building strong customer relationships across AKIRA Fashion's 40+ stores. Lead our Stylists to crush sales goals by setting clear metrics (like client outreach through Endear), delivering top-notch training, managing client books, and using StoreForce to track performance in our fast-fashion world with over 60,000 SKUs. Work closely with regional managers to drive revenue, spark customer loyalty, and keep our stores buzzing with energy.
Key Responsibilities
Sales Performance & Strategy: Create bold sales plans to boost revenue; set high-impact targets for Stylists (like conversion rates and transaction values); track progress and adjust tactics to consistently surpass goals.
Clienteling Metrics & Execution: Set and enforce clear metrics (e.g., 3+ client calls/day via Endear); monitor client book growth and engagement to drive repeat business and personalized sales.
Stylist Training & Motivation: Build and lead dynamic training programs on sales techniques, client relationships, and fast-fashion trends; provide hands-on coaching and incentives to create a fired-up, competitive sales team.
Technology Utilization: Use Endear to track client outreach and StoreForce for real-time sales insights; streamline reporting and make data-driven decisions to fuel growth.
Travel & Field Support: Hit the road (50-75% travel) to check on sales performance, coach Stylists, fix gaps, and roll out initiatives that drive immediate revenue.
Customer Loyalty & Retention: Lead efforts to create personalized client experiences; promote new arrivals (60k+ SKUs) to keep customers coming back and build long-term loyalty.
Team Leadership: Hire, develop, and inspire top Stylist talent; partner with regional managers to align on goals; coach up underperformers and celebrate top performers.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Team up with merchandising, marketing, and operations to ensure product availability, promotions, and strategies align for seamless sales execution.
Financial Analysis & Forecasting: Dive into sales data, predict trends, manage P&L components, and fine-tune pricing/promotions to boost profitability and stay competitive.
Market & Competitor Insights: Keep an eye on industry trends, competitors, and customer behaviors to spot sales opportunities and adjust strategies for ongoing growth.
Qualifications
Experience: 8+ years leading retail sales, ideally in fast fashion or apparel; proven success in driving revenue, clienteling, and managing multi-store teams in high-SKU environments.
Skills: Master of sales strategy, client management, data analytics, and team motivation; skilled with retail tech (e.g., Endear, StoreForce, CRM); strong at negotiating, presenting, and coaching.
Education: Bachelor's in Business, Marketing, Retail Management, or related field; MBA preferred.
Other: Ready for frequent travel; driven to exceed targets; thrives in a fast-paced, high-energy setting; deep understanding of fast-fashion trends and what drives sales.
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.
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.
