Human Resources Generalist

AKIRA Human Resources Generalist

In 2002, AKIRA opened the doors to its first women's clothing boutique in Chicago. Since then, the company has extended its reach to 35+ 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: Human Resources Generalist

Location: Chicago, IL

Job Type: Full-Time, Onsite

Compensation: Starting at $60,000 annually, subject to experience

Position Overview

As an HR Generalist, you will play a crucial role in promoting a healthy and inclusive work atmosphere, resolving employee issues, and ensuring compliance with labor laws and company policies for AKIRA's Distribution and Fulfillment center and retail locations. You will collaborate closely with the HR team, management, and employees to enhance employee satisfaction and engagement while mitigating potential conflicts.

Responsibilities

• Provide expert guidance and support to employees and managers regarding HR policies, procedures, and regulations.
• Investigate and resolve employee complaints, conflicts, and grievances through thorough and impartial investigations.
• Implement conflict resolution strategies and mediation to address interpersonal issues and improve workplace relationships.
• Ensure compliance with federal and state employment laws and regulations.
• Collaborate with the HR team to develop and update HR policies, procedures, and guidelines to reflect best practices and legal requirements.
• Assist in policy implementation and ensure employees are aware of and understand company policies.
• Conduct training sessions for employees and managers on various HR-related topics, including conflict resolution, employee rights, HR compliance, and company policies.
• Provide coaching and guidance to employees and managers to enhance their understanding of HR matters.
• Help employees understand their rights and responsibilities within the organization.
• Maintain accurate records of employee relations cases and prepare reports on trends and insights.
• Use data analysis to identify areas where improvements can be made in employee relations and proactively address issues.
• Collaborate with HR and management to create and implement programs to improve employee satisfaction, engagement, and retention.
• Drive employee survey completion and feedback collection to identify areas for improvement.
• Contribute to process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and accuracy in responsibilities.
• Regularly attend store visits to foster and build relationships with the retail staff.
• Process new hires, terminations, and employee changes within the HRIS.
• Conduct exit interviews and analyze data to make targeted recommendations for improvement.
• Assist with other duties as assigned.
• Support payroll, benefits, and other employee inquiries, escalating complex issues as needed.
• Maintain and update key HR documents, including calendars, master sheets, and pay trackers.

The Ideal Candidate:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Effective problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities.
• Strong organizational and analytical skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• A commitment to maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience required, retail industry preferred.
• Proven experience as an HR Generalist or a similar role, with a focus on employee relations.
• Strong knowledge of labor laws and regulations.
• Prolonged periods sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
• Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
• Travel up to 15% locally and domestically

Diversity & Inclusion

At AKIRA we believe that treating everyone in a first-class manner is essential to fostering an inclusive environment that reflects our values and our community. This is deeply rooted in our company's principles, culture, and fashion. We continuously strive to cultivate a company where employees feel a sense of belonging and contribute to a culture that values differences, ideas, and experiences. Our unique workforce is directly linked to our success and makes us stronger collectively.

Benefits and 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