AKIRA - Visual Operations Manager

About AKIRA
In 2002, AKIRA opened its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, we've expanded to 35+ stores across the U.S. and built a thriving eCommerce presence at shopAKIRA.com.
AKIRA continues to grow rapidly while maintaining our distinct, fanatical focus on meeting the needs and desires of our customers.

At AKIRA, every team member is encouraged to Act and Think Like an Owner-a mindset that drives our culture, our service, and our success.

The Role: Visual Operations Manager

Overview
As a Visual Operations Manager, you'll lead all visual and operational aspects of the store, managing a team of 4-20 depending on store size. This hybrid role blends creativity with strategy-you'll use sales data to inform layout decisions, craft compelling visual stories, and drive performance through effective merchandising.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategically prioritize and execute daily merchandising tasks based on both visual needs and sales analytics.
• Lead and execute floor moves, table and wall displays, mannequin styling, and seasonal/promotional set-ups in alignment with company guidelines.
• Partner with the store management team to ensure merchandising supports business goals and elevates the customer experience.
• Maintain cleanliness and operational readiness of displays, fixtures, and lighting.
• Conduct regular visual and operations assessments with action plans for continued improvement.
• Assist on the sales floor-supporting stylists, helping customers, managing fitting rooms, and operating the cash wrap.
• Actively support recruitment and performance management by participating in all aspects of team development.

What We're Looking For

• Minimum 2 years of experience in visual merchandising
• Strong fashion sense and awareness of current trends
• Ability to work independently and lead in a fast-paced team environment
• Strong organizational, time management, and communication skills
• Willingness to work early mornings and occasional late nights as needed
• Open to flexible scheduling, including weekends and holidays

Physical Requirements

• Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
• Comfortable standing or walking for extended periods (10-12 hour shifts)

Travel Requirements

• Willingness to occasionally travel to support other stores as needed

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

At AKIRA, we believe that treating everyone with respect and dignity is essential to creating an
inclusive workplace. We value diverse backgrounds, ideas, and experiences-and strive to build a team where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.

Benefits & Perks:

AKIRA offers competitive benefits for full-time employees, including Medical, Dental, Vision, Pet, Life, LTD, FSA/HSA/Dependent Care FSA, Flex Transit (CTA), 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.

Job Type: Full-Time