JIM MURRAY EXITS A.K. RIKK’S

Jim Murray, the President of Grand Rapids, Michigan–based specialty retailer A.K. Rikk’s, has resigned from his position and left the store after more than 16 years there.

He started in sales and was later promoted to GM before assuming the role of store President.

Announcing the news in a note to vendors he wrote:

On February 17th 2020 I formally gave my resignation as the President of A.K. Rikk’s.

A few years ago I spent time with my wife trying to decide if my journey at A.K. Rikk’s was coming to an end. Not for any other reason but was my tool set as a visionary not as resourceful as it once was. Covid happened and it required a visionary-leader and I was determined with my team to see us through this uncertain time. What we were able to accomplish as a retailer during the pandemic was amazing and I thank all of you for standing with us over the past few years. We wouldn’t have accomplished so much without that support.

It has been an absolute pleasure meeting, working with and creating friendships with so many of you! I want to thank you for all that you have done over the years to support A.K. Rikk’s. I know believing in a store in a small city with a big vision isn’t exactly the perfect recipe for some luxury brands, but many of you took a chance and I cannot thank you enough.

I want to thank Richard Gaby, the owner of A.K. Rikk’s. Even though he is not always at market his influence is always present. He is consistently engaged in the business especially making certain the visions are always connected to the larger perspective and that we do not forsake our true mission of empathy for our clients. His leadership has always challenged the good to be great and has provided this team with the platform and trust it takes for us to accomplish all that we have together. The lessons and mentorship over the many years with A.K. Rikk’s will always be remembered and used in my next venture.

With Rick’s leadership and the unbelievable team set in place, I have no doubt A.K. Rikk’s will continue to break records in the retail space!

In a follow-up note to MR, Murray confides that it was a tough decision, but one that he’d been contemplating pre-pandemic.

“A.K. Rikk’s is an amazing place… what I enjoyed doing the most,” he told us.

Murray says that for now, he will continue consulting with retailers and sales teams.