Area Manager - Northwest Suburb of Chicago

Job Description

Job Description

AKIRA – Area Manager

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: Area Manager

Position Summary:
AKIRA Area Managers are dynamic, high-performing leaders who oversee multiple store locations. They drive results through fanatical sales focus, exceptional team development, and an unshakable commitment to delivering an outstanding customer experience.

By leading with vision and purpose, Area Managers build strong, motivated store teams, execute at a high level, and embody AKIRA's unique culture in every decision.

Key Responsibilities

• Recruit & Retain Talent: Hire, onboard, and mentor high-performing store managers and teams across your region.

• Develop Leaders: Invest in training and performance development to cultivate strong, growth-minded leaders.

• Drive Culture: Foster a positive, energetic, and inclusive environment aligned with AKIRA's values.

• Elevate the Experience: Ensure AKIRA's 5 Steps of Selling are executed consistently across all stores.

• Lead Through Action: Provide hands-on support, set clear expectations, and deliver real-time coaching and feedback.

• Set and Exceed Goals: Own and drive sales performance daily, weekly, and monthly to surpass area objectives.

• Ensure Operational Excellence: Maintain top-tier store presentation, visual standards, inventory practices, and customer service across all locations.

• Uphold Standards: Enforce AKIRA policies and Code of Conduct with fairness, consistency, and integrity.

• Promote Collaboration: Build strong relationships across your stores to share best practices, solve challenges, and fuel team success.

What You Bring

• 2+ years of multi-store or area management experience in retail or fashion

• Passion for fashion and an eye for trend-driven merchandising

• A bold, entrepreneurial spirit and strong work ethic

• Inspiring leadership and a proven ability to manage, coach, and motivate multiple teams

• Strong time management, communication, and organizational skills

• Ability to adapt quickly, take initiative, and act with urgency

• Deep knowledge of visual merchandising, store operations, and customer service excellence

• Confidence in using data to drive decisions and measure performance

• Ability to lead by example, take ownership, and go above and beyond

Physical Requirements

• Ability to push, pull, and lift up to 50 lbs.

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including 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.