Assistant Store Manager FT - Willowbrook

AKIRA – Assistant Store Manager (Full Time)

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: Assistant Store Manager

Position Summary:
AKIRA Assistant Store Managers are goal-driven leaders and dynamic salespeople. They are deeply committed to delivering a world-class styling experience, fostering a high-energy team environment, and driving consistent results. By leading through action and operating with an ownership mindset, our Assistant Store Managers play a critical role in talent development, customer satisfaction, and store performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist store management in recruiting, interviewing, and onboarding exceptional team members
• Support training, coaching, and talent retention to build a high-performing team
• Help create and maintain a positive, energized, and inclusive store atmosphere
• Reinforce and embody AKIRA's 5 Steps of Selling on the floor
• Deliver real-time and written performance feedback to team members
• Motivate and inspire employees to exceed individual and team goals
• Ensure daily operations, merchandising, and store visuals meet AKIRA standards
• Support in upholding and enforcing company policies and procedures
• Achieve and exceed personal sales goals with passion and consistency
• Contribute to overall store sales goals (daily, weekly, and monthly)
• Lead by example and promote AKIRA's brand values and 4 Principles

Qualifications

• Minimum 1 year of retail experience, with some exposure to leadership or management
• Passion for fashion and strong awareness of current trends
• High energy, strong work ethic, and performance-driven mindset
• Leadership potential with the ability to guide, support, and motivate a team
• Excellent communication, organizational, and time-management skills
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Willingness to adapt to change, take initiative, and solve problems
• Familiarity with visual merchandising and exceptional customer service standards
• Basic knowledge of store operations, including inventory control and loss prevention
• Collaborative spirit with the ability to build strong working relationships

Physical Requirements

• Ability to repetitively push, pull, and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Comfortable standing and walking for extended periods, including 10–12 hour shifts

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.