Divisional Merchandise Manager

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AKIRA is a fast-growing women's fashion brand with 30+ retail stores nationwide and a thriving eCommerce business. Our brand is bold, our pace is fast, and our people are everything. We believe in ownership, accountability, and delivering standout customer service.

Chicago, IL (On-site)

Full-Time

The Divisional Merchandise Manager is responsible for developing and executing merchandise strategies along with growing the overall sales volume and profit of the apparel/accessories division. This role partners closely with Buying, Design, Product Development, and key stakeholders to ensure assortments align with customer demand, brand vision, and financial goals.

• Develop and execute merchandise strategies aligned with customer needs, sales objectives, and overall brand direction
• Drive growth across all categories by setting strategic goals and performance targets
• Train, mentor, and coach team members in a fast-paced environment
• Partner with Design and Product Development to ensure pricing, margins, and cost structures meet business requirements
• Inspire fashion and style through compelling product storytelling and presentation
• Facilitate production planning across sourcing partners and vendors
• Understand, manage, and oversee Open-to-Buy (OTB) planning
• Support brick-and-mortar and eCommerce teams with marketing and promotional strategies for exclusive drops, launches, and new product introductions

• Bachelor's degree in Fashion, Business, or a related field
• 4+ years of experience in a Merchant or Merchant Manager role
• Proven ability to lead and develop teams in a fast-paced environment
• Strong understanding of fashion trends, fit, and overall aesthetic
• Strategic thinker with strong planning and timeline management skills
• Ability and willingness to travel as needed

• Highly motivated with an exceptional work ethic and ability to meet tight deadlines
• An excellent written and verbal communicator
• Extremely organized with strong attention to detail and follow-through
  
  Comfortable multitasking and prioritizing in a dynamic, fast-moving environment
• A collaborative, responsive, and team-oriented leader

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.