Senior Buyer

Akira; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent fashion brand is seeking a Senior Buyer to lead procurement strategies across all categories. This role involves analyzing market trends, curating product assortments, and collaborating with multiple departments to ensure alignment with brand goals. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in buying and merchandising, combined with strong leadership and negotiation skills.

Benefits

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life Insurance

LTD

FSA / HSA

401(k)

Employee Discount

Qualifications

• 5+ years of buying/merchandising experience across fashion categories.
• Experience managing a team and leading cross-functional projects.
• Strong understanding of product development and production timelines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee buying strategies across all categories.
• Curate product assortments aligned with trend forecasts.
• Lead and mentor the buying team and assistant buyers.

Skills

Negotiation

Data Analysis

Market Trend Analysis

Strategic Thinking

Communication

Leadership

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Fashion, Business, or related field

Tools

Inventory Systems

Job description

In 2002, AKIRA opened its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has expanded to 30+ stores across the U.S. and a thriving eCommerce platform (shopAKIRA). AKIRA is positioned for long-term growth as we continue building a nationally recognized fashion brand.

Our culture is defined by Other-Worldly Customer Service and Fanatical Attention to our consumers' needs. At AKIRA, we empower every employee to Act and Think Like an Owner , a value that guides everything we do.

Position

Senior Buyer - All Categories

Location

Chicago, IL (On-site)

Compensation

Starting at $80,000 Annual Salary + Bonus

• Subject to experience

Position Overview :

The Senior Buyer - All Categories will be responsible for leading the procurement and merchandising strategy across all product categories, including apparel, footwear, accessories, and more. This role ensures curated, trend-forward assortments for both retail and eCommerce that align with our brand identity and business goals. Responsibilities include sales forecasting, SKU planning, pricing strategy, and vendor relationship management. The ideal candidate will leverage data insights, lead a team, and collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, planning, and finance to drive sales and margin performance across all departments.

Key Responsibilities :

• Oversee buying strategies across all categories (Apparel, Footwear, Accessories, etc.)
• Curate product assortments aligned with trend forecasts and customer demand
• Analyze market trends and performance data to drive sales strategies
• Manage open-to-buy and seasonal inventory planning
• Lead and mentor buying team and assistant buyers
• Partner with vendors and negotiate terms to maximize margin and delivery timelines
• Work with planning and finance teams to manage pricing and profitability
• Monitor and manage inventory levels and replenishment needs
• Collaborate with marketing on product launches and promotional strategies
• Ensure alignment between in-store and online assortments

Qualifications :

• Bachelor's Degree in Fashion, Business, or a related field
• 5+ years of buying / merchandising experience across multiple fashion categories
• Experience managing a team and leading cross-functional projects
• Strong understanding of product development and production timelines
• Excellent negotiation and vendor relationship skills
• Proficiency in data analysis, inventory systems, and sales forecasting
• Strategic thinker with a keen eye for fashion and consumer trends
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• Must be able to travel as needed

Benefits and Perks :

AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, LTD, FSA / HSA, 401(k), and employee discount. We are committed to encouraging internal development and providing significant career enrichment opportunities. Most importantly, what has propelled AKIRA's growth and success over the years has been the dynamic culture within the company - if you're filled with passion, have a strong desire to get things done, and if you want to go to a place where you know your work matters and where you can implement your ideas and decisions, then AKIRA just might be the place for you.

Employment Type

Full-time

At AKIRA, we are committed to fair and transparent compensation practices. The starting pay for this position is $80,000.00 annually, and may be adjusted based on experience, qualifications, and other job-related factors. Additional compensation and benefits may also apply and will be discussed during the hiring process.