Assistant 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 emphasizes other-worldly customer service and fanatical, obsessive attention to the consumer’s needs and desires. The core principle for all employees is to Act and Think Like an Owner.

About the role

The Assistant Buyer - Footwear supports the Buying and Merchandising team. This role is ideal for someone looking to build a career in buying, product creation, or production within a fast-paced retail/fashion environment. We are looking for someone who is extremely detail-oriented, organized, and has a great work ethic.

Responsibilities

• Vendor Communication & Relationship Management
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers
  • Communicate clearly with vendors on order status, product availability, delivery timelines, and issue resolution
  • Maintain and monitor Email & WeChat communication and management
  • Review vendor invoices daily and ensure all data entry of purchase orders is accurate; flag discrepancies with the buying team to resolve asap
• Purchase Order & Inventory Management
  • Accurately enter and track purchase orders, reviewing all attributions are correct; ensure all orders are processed efficiently and on time
  • Monitor and follow up on open orders to address discrepancies, delays, or adjustments
  • Assist in managing inventory levels, ensuring stock aligns with sales forecasts and customer demand
• Product Data & SKU Maintenance
  • Support the Buyer in managing a broad assortment of SKUs, ensuring product information is accurate and up-to-date
  • Organize and maintain product databases, ensuring all footwear items are properly set up and tracked
  • Provide sales and trend analysis & recommendations to optimize the footwear assortment based on performance data
• Sample Coordination
  • Organize and maintain sample displays and seasonal walls
  • Request sample information related to cost and minimums
  • Order and track top of production and presale samples
  • Review QC reports and flag issues to buyers
• Market and Trend Research
  • Conduct comp shopping presentations and trend analysis
• Cross-functional Collaboration
  • Partner with allocation, planning, and logistics teams to ensure timely product delivery and smooth inventory flow
  • Coordinate with internal departments to support key merchandising and operational initiatives

Requirements

• 1–3 years of experience in buying, merchandising, product coordination, or vendor management, preferably in footwear or fashion
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Analytical mindset with an understanding of sales data and fashion trends

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Pet Insurance
• Life, LTD
• FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA
• Flex Transit (CTA)
• 401(k)
• Generous employee discount
• Meaningful development and career advancement opportunities