Boutique Assistant (Long-Term Temporary Assignment) - Chicago

Boutique Assistant - Cartier, Chicago

At Cartier North America, we are proud to employ talent from many different backgrounds, experiences, and identities. We believe that when diversity and inclusion are fully embraced and empowered, creativity and knowledge emerge to deliver excellence. We continue to work towards creating a workforce that represents the diversity of our clients and our communities.

Role Overview

The Boutique Assistant role will support the execution of the client experience strategy in boutique with a 360 view that aligns with our Maison Values such as Open-mindedness, Curiosity, Generosity, Sharing, Respect, Rigor, and Independence. Our objective is to create the most exceptional client experience with the most productive environment and its people, all through the lens of hospitality. In partnership with boutique management, the Boutique Assistant will support the execution of a tailored client experience journey to ensure seamless and memorable experiences that will foster brand loyalty for generations to come. The Boutique Assistant will be an integral part of delivering our mission to exceed client expectations through the lens of a luxury boutique environment. Rooted in our Cartier heritage-we strive to deliver on our promise of emotion to our clients; through finding the extraordinary and the ordinary, elevated moments, and creating lasting impressions through a culture of beauty, love, and passion. In doing so, we create consistency across the network, giving our clients a bespoke experience throughout North America while enhancing our client development opportunities through anticipating client needs and a curated experience within boutiques.

Responsibilities

Build extraordinary client experiences through hospitality excellence

• Promote a warm and welcoming boutique environment to enhance the client journey from beginning to end that aligns with our Cartier Values.
• Assist the boutique team front-of-house and back-of-house with various activities to facilitate seamless client experiences, primarily focusing on client treatment such as appointment preparation, client entertainment, product presentation, sales finalization (e.g., running product, gathering sales accessories, gift wrapping, food & beverage service).
• As part of appointment support, assist sales associates to set the stage with impactful discovery and pre-appointment browsing.
• Support the flow of boutique traffic and daily management of the boutique appointment booking tool (RDV) and queue as needed.

Enhance the boutique environment

• Support and maintain the visual standards of wrap rooms, and organization of Client Services areas.
• Maintain and replenish daily needs for sales and hospitality areas, support the order process (as needed) and optimal storage organization.
• Support client treatment and personal services of the highest level that may include directions, restaurant reservations, entertainment requests, floral orders, etc.; support the creation of maps, literature, and other materials as needed.
• Assist with phone duties, supporting incoming calls, retrieval of messages, and appointment setting for phone inquiries.
• Assist clients with quick service requests, personalization requests, such as complimentary services including strap changes, watch sizing, steam cleaning, cord changes, engraving, embossing, etc.
• Participate in daily set up and break down of boutique for opening/closing as needed.
• Partner with the Operations Coordinator to manage the stock maintenance of non-sellables as needed.
• Assist with special projects as needed.

Maison / industry knowledge and compliance

• Understand and comply with security and operational procedures.
• Remain current on all industry news, local/global competition, and connection to community.
• Strive for operational excellence related to the boutique environment and upholding standard.

Teamwork

• Uphold the Cartier standards with the ability to project an approachable and professional image in personal appearance, manner, and demeanor.
• Contribute to a positive and productive boutique environment by leveraging both personal and team savoir-faire to always create a highly collaborative network both in person and via telephone.

Qualifications

Experience

• Previous experience especially in luxury retail, service or hospitality industry is a plus.

Technical Skills / Abilities

• Excellent computer skills and use of technology.
• MS Office experience required; SAP knowledge preferred.
• Additional language skills are a plus.

Physical Requirements

Boutique Assistants must be capable of prolonged standing, walking, and frequent bending or kneeling. The role typically requires lifting/moving up to approx. 45 lbs. High energy, physical stamina, and the ability to work in fast-paced environments are essential. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

Core Physical Demands

• Mobility: Extensive standing and walking throughout shifts.
• Strength: Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling items (often up to 45 lbs.).
• Flexibility: Regular bending, stooping, kneeling, and crouching.
• Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to frequently climb stairs while moving between areas. (e.g., multi-level locations)
• Comfortable working in tight or confined back of house spaces where storage and service areas may be compact.
• Ability to safely handle and work with glassware during hosting and service operations.

Personal Skills

• Must be available to work retail hours (including weekends) and travel for training as needed.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Excellent organizational and interpersonal communication skills are required.
• Strong understanding of client service needs and priorities (internal and external).
• Strong attention to detail with the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously with accuracy and precision.
• Collaborative approach with the ability to foster a united work environment with a “can do” attitude.
• Intellectual curiosity and passion for learning.

We Offer – United States

This role offers a variety of benefits, available through our Adecco Staffing partners. Employee wellbeing is a top priority at Richemont. We offer a comprehensive benefits program to support employees and their loved ones. Our core benefits include medical, dental, and vision programs. Understanding the importance of work-life balance and your wellbeing is at the heart of who we are. At Richemont, We Craft the Future!

This job description may not be inclusive of all assigned duties, responsibilities, or job aspects described and is subject to amendment as needed at the sole discretion of the employer.

Key skills/competency

• Client Experience
• Hospitality Excellence
• Luxury Retail
• Brand Loyalty
• Visual Merchandising
• Inventory Management
• Customer Service
• Communication Skills
• Team Collaboration
• Attention to Detail