Job Title

AKIRA Assistant Controller (Azalea Wang) 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.The Position: Assistant Controller (Azalea Wang) Location: Chicago, IL- Full-time Onsite Position Summary: Azalea Wang is seeking a highly analytical and operationally minded Assistant Controller to support and oversee the company's accounting operations. This role will manage the day-to-day accounting functions, including AR, AP, and the monthly close process, while ensuring accurate, timely financial reporting and strong internal controls.The ideal candidate has a minimum of 7 years of progressive accounting experience, a strong operational background, a deep understanding of inventory in wholesale and or CPG/retail environments, and demonstrated experience managing a small team. This role requires strong systems expertise and the ability to partner cross-functionally to improve processes and drive financial visibility across the organization. Key ResponsibilitiesAccounting Operations Responsible for Accounts Receivable and Accounts Payable functionsManage and execute the monthly, quarterly, and annual close processEnsure accurate revenue recognition, inventory accounting, and expense accrualsMaintain integrity of the general ledger and supporting workpapersReview journal entries, reconciliations, and financial schedules Inventory & Retail Accounting Ensure accurate inventory accounting across stores and eCommerceOversee inventory reconciliations, reserves, and shrink analysisPartner with operations and merchandising on inventory controls and reportingSupport COGS analysis and gross margin reporting Financial Reporting & Analysis Prepare monthly financial statements and supporting schedulesPerform detailed variance analysis (P&L, balance sheet, cash flow)Identify trends, risks, and opportunities in financial performanceSupport budgeting and forecasting processes Team Management Review work for accuracy and completeness Systems & Process Improvement Lead accounting system improvements and automation initiativesOptimize workflows to increase efficiency and reduce errorsEnsure strong internal controls and documentation of processesPartner with IT and operations on system integrations and enhancements Cross-Functional Partnership Collaborate with operations, merchandising, sales, and eCommerce teamsEnsure accurate reporting of sales, inventory, and expensesSupport leadership with ad hoc financial analysis Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance (CPA preferred but not required)7+ years of accounting experience, preferably in wholesale footwear/apparel, retail or CPGStrong understanding of inventory accounting and cost of goods soldExperience managing direct reportsAdvanced Excel skills; strong ERP/system experience (NetSuite preferred)Proven ability to improve processes and implement controlsHighly analytical with strong attention to detailStrong communication skills and ability to work cross-functionallyOperational mindset with hands-on execution capability Ideal Candidate Profile Understands high-volume transactional environmentsHas built or improved accounting processesComfortable working in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial companyBalances strategic thinking with strong execution 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. Compensation: At AKIRA, 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.Job Type: Full-Time