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 ) 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 $55,000 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

Employee Relations & Compliance

• Provide support to employees and managers regarding HR policies, procedures, and employment laws.
• Investigate and resolve employee complaints, grievances, and conflicts through impartial and thorough processes.
• Implement conflict resolution and mediation strategies to support a healthy workplace culture.
• Maintain accurate documentation of employee relations cases, exit interviews, and provide trend analysis and recommendations.
• Support compliance with safety, SHPT, and warehouse-specific training requirements.

Talent Acquisition & Onboarding

• Develop and execute recruitment strategies for corporate and warehouse roles and support broader hiring needs as assigned.
• Manage the end-to-end hiring process including job postings, resume screening, interviews, and onboarding.
• Partner with hiring managers on staffing needs and workforce planning.
• Lead new hire orientations in AKIRA's Distribution and Fulfillment Center and ensure proper onboarding documentation and system setup.
• Coordinate with staffing agencies for temporary workforce management during peak seasons.
• Ensure accurate processing of onboarding and offboarding paperwork in accordance with company standards.

HR Operations & Administrative Support

• Process employee changes and terminations in the HRIS system; maintain employee records and attendance logs.
• Support payroll, benefits, and ADP inquiries, escalating complex issues as needed.
• Maintain and update key HR documents, including calendars, master sheets, and pay trackers.
• Oversee warehouse programs and engagement initiatives (e.g., incentives, holiday events) and handle related expenses and reports.
• Provide general administrative support to warehouse leadership and HR management, including special projects and ad hoc tasks.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years of relevant experience required, warehousing or 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, including AKIRA's HQ in Chicago, IL

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