700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: 700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc

Location: Portland, Maine, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales Operations / Revenue Operations (Client Relationship & Sales Management)

Date Posted: 2026-08-23T04:00:00

Experience Level: Entry-Level to Mid-Level (0-2 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue generation through consultative interior design services and direct sales of Ethan Allen products, focusing on building and nurturing client relationships.

• Leverage advanced digital tools and a comprehensive understanding of interior design principles to create personalized client solutions and manage project lifecycles.

• Act as a brand ambassador, representing Ethan Allen's commitment to quality craftsmanship, personal service, and design excellence in all client interactions.

• Implement strategic grassroots marketing and social media engagement to expand client base and achieve ambitious sales targets within a dynamic retail environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Designer," operates heavily within a sales and revenue generation framework. The "Operations" aspect lies in the systematic approach to client management, sales process execution, and the utilization of technology to drive business outcomes. Therefore, it's categorized under Sales Operations/Revenue Operations with a focus on client relationship management and sales enablement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and present comprehensive interior design solutions, including space planning, fabric coordination, and product selection, tailored to individual client preferences and budgets.

• Proactively engage with customers in the Design Center and through in-home consultations to establish rapport, understand needs, and close sales opportunities.

• Execute targeted marketing strategies, including social media engagement and grassroots initiatives, to expand the client portfolio and drive business development.

• Educate clients on Ethan Allen's complimentary design services, financing options, and the value proposition of custom-crafted products.

• Maintain a high level of customer satisfaction by ensuring timely communication regarding order status, potential delays, and post-sale follow-up.

• Contribute to the ongoing development and maintenance of the Design Center's portfolio, showcasing successful client projects and design expertise.

• Utilize corporate systems and technology, such as 3D Room Planner and CRM, to optimize design processes, create compelling presentations, and enhance client service.

• Accurately enter orders and manage transactions using the retail point-of-sale system.

• Collaborate with the Design Center Leader and team members to develop and execute business and marketing plans aimed at exceeding sales goals and expanding market reach.

• Stay abreast of current design trends, color palettes, and product offerings to provide fashionable and relevant design solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales, customer service, and operational execution. The emphasis on "Minimum Monthly Sales," "Home Calls," and "Close Ratio" indicates a strong performance-driven sales environment, requiring consistent effort in client acquisition and conversion, which are core to revenue operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

• A Bachelor's degree or equivalent in a design-related field from an accredited institution is desirable. Experience:

• Minimum of one (1) year of practical interior design experience is required.

• Proven experience in sales techniques and client relationship management is highly valued. Required Skills:

• Broad knowledge of interior design principles, styles, and current trends.

• Proficient understanding of effective sales techniques, including consultative selling and closing strategies.

• Excellent listening, oral, and written communication skills for clear client interaction and professional correspondence.

• Ability to build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with clients.

• Competency in utilizing digital floor planning technology and 3D visualization tools for design presentations.

• Skill in leveraging social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) for business development and brand promotion.

• Proficiency in using corporate systems and technology, including CRM software and retail point-of-sale systems.

• Ability to work cooperatively and contribute to a neat and orderly Design Center environment.

• Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for in-home consultations. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) visualization tools.

• Demonstrated success in grassroots marketing and business development initiatives.

• Familiarity with Ethan Allen's product lines and design philosophy.

• Experience with A/B testing or analyzing the effectiveness of marketing initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a valid driver's license and ability to perform in-home consultations signifies a hands-on, client-facing role that extends beyond the Design Center, necessitating strong logistical and time-management skills, critical for operations roles focused on client engagement.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse client projects that demonstrate your ability to translate client needs into successful design solutions.

• Include clear before-and-after visuals or detailed project descriptions highlighting the scope of work, design challenges, and your proposed solutions.

• Demonstrate proficiency in space planning, furniture selection, fabric coordination, and overall aesthetic development within each project.

• Highlight your ability to manage projects from initial consultation through to completion, including client communication and order management.

• Quantify achievements where possible, such as client satisfaction metrics, sales figures attributed to specific projects, or efficiency gains in your design process. Process Documentation:

• Prepare to discuss your personal workflow for managing client engagements, from initial contact and needs assessment to design presentation and order placement.

• Be ready to explain how you utilize design software (e.g., 3D Room Planner, floor planning tools) and CRM systems to streamline your design process and client interactions.

• Outline your approach to staying organized, managing multiple projects simultaneously, and ensuring timely delivery of design proposals and completed projects.

• Detail your methods for tracking client interactions, follow-ups, and sales performance, aligning with typical CRM and sales operations best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a "portfolio requirement," the job description mentions contributing to the "development and on-going upkeep of the design center’s portfolio." This implies that candidates should be prepared to discuss their contributions to team portfolios and showcase their individual work that exemplifies best practices in design and sales execution.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Recoverable Draw: Typically ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 annually, based on written sales.

• Potential Income (Experienced Consultants): Averages $70,000 - $115,000 per year.

• Top Performers: Potential to earn $200,000+ per year.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is commission-based with a recoverable draw, a common model in sales roles. The stated average and top-tier earnings provide a clear benchmark for potential income, reflecting a performance-driven sales environment. For Portland, ME, the average base salary for a Sales Consultant can range from $45,000 to $60,000, with commissions significantly increasing total earnings, aligning with the provided range.

Benefits:

• 401(k) plan with employer contributions.

• Multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage.

• Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions.

• Dental Plan.

• Vision Plan.

• Basic Group Term Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance.

• Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance.

• Dependent Group Term Life Insurance.

• Short and Long-Term Disability insurance.

• Business Travel Accident Life Insurance.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for Health Care and Dependent Care.

• Commuter Saving Plans (Public Transit & Parking).

• Voluntary Whole Life Insurance.

• Voluntary Critical Care Insurance.

• Voluntary Accident Insurance.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Working Hours:

• This is a Full-Time position, typically requiring 40 hours per week. Hours may vary based on client appointments and Design Center operational needs, often including evenings and weekends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The extensive benefits package is typical for a large, established retail organization, offering comprehensive coverage for health, financial planning, and well-being, which are crucial considerations for long-term career stability in any role, including operations-focused sales positions.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings Retail / Interior Design Services. Ethan Allen is recognized as America's #1 Premium Furniture Retailer by Newsweek, emphasizing quality craftsmanship and personalized client service.

Company Size: A large, established enterprise, operating a global network of Design Centers. This scale suggests robust operational processes and resources available to support sales and design functions.

Founded: Established over 90 years ago, with a long history of profitable operations and a strong reputation for quality and craftsmanship.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a Design Center, likely reporting to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader.

• Collaboration is expected with fellow Design Consultants to provide exceptional customer service and contribute to overall Design Center success.

• Cross-functional collaboration may extend to workshop liaisons for custom product inquiries and operational support teams for system-related matters. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Client Engagement: Utilizing CRM and sales data to track client interactions, identify opportunities, and measure performance against benchmarks.

• Process Optimization: Employing digital tools like 3D Room Planners and integrated systems to enhance design efficiency and client presentation quality.

• Relationship-Based Selling: Focusing on building long-term client relationships through personalized service, in-home consultations, and continuous engagement.

Company Website: https://www.ethanallen.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's long history and emphasis on "North American workshops" and "custom-crafted products" suggest a commitment to quality that translates into a sales approach focused on value and client satisfaction, rather than high-volume, low-margin transactions. This requires a consultative and detailed approach, aligning with operations principles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an individual contributor with a focus on direct client sales and design execution. It represents an entry to mid-level opportunity within the sales and design function.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader, who oversees the operational and sales performance of the Design Center.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant directly impacts revenue through sales commissions and contributes to the overall success of the Design Center by driving client acquisition, fostering loyalty, and maintaining brand standards. Their ability to effectively manage client projects and utilize sales enablement tools contributes to operational efficiency and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Specialist: With proven sales performance and design expertise, opportunities may exist to take on more complex projects, mentor junior consultants, or specialize in specific product categories.

• Design Center Leadership: Progression to roles such as Design Center Leader or Sales Manager, involving team leadership, business planning, and operational oversight.

• Sales Training & Development: Potential to transition into roles focused on training new sales associates or developing sales enablement programs.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to leverage client relationship and sales experience in other client-facing or business development roles within Ethan Allen.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role is client-facing, the emphasis on utilizing technology, managing projects, and contributing to business plans indicates a pathway for growth into more operationally focused or leadership roles within the retail and sales management structure.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is an Ethan Allen Design Center, which functions as a retail showroom and design studio. It is a client-facing space requiring a professional and aesthetically pleasing presentation.

Office Location(s): Portland, Maine, United States.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Showroom: A dynamic showroom environment where consultants interact with clients and colleagues, showcasing products and design solutions.

• Technology Integration: Access to and utilization of corporate systems, including digital floor planning software, CRM, and potentially interactive visualization tools.

• Client Interaction Hub: The Design Center serves as the central point for client meetings, consultations, and sales transactions.

Work Schedule: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week. This will likely involve a mix of scheduled client appointments, showroom floor coverage, and potentially in-home consultations. Flexibility is often required to accommodate client availability, which may include evenings and weekends.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and client-facing nature mean this role is deeply integrated into the physical retail operations of Ethan Allen, demanding a strong presence and professional demeanor within the Design Center.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of applications and resumes to assess qualifications and experience against the role's requirements, with a focus on interior design and sales background.

• First Interview (Phone/Video): Likely with a hiring manager or HR representative to discuss experience, career aspirations, and initial fit with the company culture and sales expectations.

• In-Person Interview/Audition: This may involve a more in-depth discussion, possibly a design challenge, presentation of a portfolio, and assessment of sales aptitude and interpersonal skills within the Design Center environment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to finalize the decision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best showcase your design skills, problem-solving abilities, and client management success.

• Quantify Results: Whenever possible, include metrics such as client satisfaction scores, sales figures, or project scope.

• Highlight Process: Clearly articulate your design process, from initial client brief to final installation, emphasizing your methodology and decision-making.

• Showcase Technology Use: If you utilized specific design software or digital tools, ensure this is evident in your project examples.

• Tailor to Ethan Allen: Understand Ethan Allen's brand aesthetic and product offerings, and select projects that align with their style and quality standards.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss your approach to common interior design challenges, such as working with difficult spaces, managing client budgets, or resolving design disagreements.

• Practice articulating your sales process and how you identify client needs, present solutions, and overcome objections.

• Familiarize yourself with Ethan Allen's product catalog and design philosophy to demonstrate your understanding of their brand.

• Prepare to discuss how you would leverage social media and grassroots marketing to build your client base.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the sales-driven nature of the role, interviewers will likely assess not only design talent but also sales acumen, client service orientation, and the ability to operate effectively within a performance-driven, commission-based structure.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Room Planner/Digital Floor Planning Software: Essential for creating visual representations of client spaces and furniture layouts.

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management) System: Used for managing client information, tracking interactions, scheduling appointments, and monitoring sales pipelines.

• Retail Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing orders, transactions, and managing sales data.

• Social Media Platforms: Including Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, for marketing, client engagement, and business development.

• Interactive Visualization Tools: Potentially including AR/VR applications for enhanced client presentations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, expect to utilize reports generated from the CRM and POS systems to track personal sales performance, client engagement metrics, and contribution to Design Center goals. CRM & Automation:

• Proficiency in a CRM system is key for managing client relationships and sales processes effectively. Automation features within CRM or POS systems may be leveraged for tasks like appointment reminders or follow-up communications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "corporate systems and technology" and specific tools like "3-D Room Planner" and "CRM" indicates that technical proficiency and a willingness to adopt new technologies are critical for success in this role and for efficient operations.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction to build lasting relationships and drive repeat business.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding Ethan Allen's reputation for high-quality, custom-crafted products and design excellence.

• Collaboration: Working effectively within a team environment to support colleagues and ensure a seamless client experience.

• Results-Oriented: A strong focus on achieving and exceeding sales targets through effective design and sales strategies.

• Continuous Improvement: Embracing learning new technologies and design trends to enhance professional skills and service offerings.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented Sales Environment: While individual sales performance is paramount, there's an expectation of mutual support and collaboration to achieve overall Design Center goals.

• Client Service Synergy: Working together to ensure clients receive exceptional service throughout their engagement, from initial consultation to post-sale follow-up.

• Knowledge Sharing: Openness to sharing design insights, sales strategies, and best practices with fellow consultants.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "associates are our greatest brand ambassadors" and valuing "entrepreneurial drive" suggests a culture that empowers individuals while fostering a sense of collective responsibility for brand representation and business success.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Commission-Based Income Volatility: The incentive-based compensation model can lead to fluctuating income, requiring strong sales performance and financial management.

• Client Acquisition & Retention: Consistently building a robust client base and maintaining strong relationships in a competitive market.

• Balancing Design & Sales: Effectively integrating creative design work with the demands of achieving sales targets.

• Adapting to New Technologies: Staying current with evolving design software, visualization tools, and digital marketing platforms.

• Managing Multiple Projects: Juggling diverse client needs, project scopes, and deadlines simultaneously.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Design Training: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific design styles, materials, or product categories.

• Sales & Negotiation Skills Enhancement: Access to training programs focused on improving sales techniques, closing strategies, and client objection handling.

• Technology Adoption: Training on new design software, visualization tools, and digital marketing platforms to enhance productivity and client engagement.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to learn from experienced Design Consultants or Leaders, gaining insights into successful business development and client management strategies.

• Leadership Development: Pathways for those interested in moving into management roles, focusing on team leadership, operational planning, and business growth strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Challenges" section highlights areas where a candidate's operational thinking—strategic planning, process refinement, and risk management—can be leveraged to succeed in this client-facing sales role.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing an interior design concept from initial client consultation to final presentation." (Focus on methodology, client needs assessment, and how you integrate product selection.)

• "How do you leverage technology, such as 3D room planners or CRM, to enhance your design process and client engagement?" (Be prepared to discuss specific tools and how they improve efficiency and client experience.)

• "Walk me through a challenging sales situation you encountered and how you successfully navigated it to close the sale." (Highlight your sales techniques, problem-solving, and client management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ethan Allen's brand, products, and commitment to quality, and how does your design philosophy align with it?" (Research their history, values, and product lines.)

• "How do you approach building long-term relationships with clients in a retail environment?" (Emphasize client-centricity, follow-up, and exceeding expectations.)

• "Describe your experience with social media marketing and grassroots efforts for business development." (Provide concrete examples of how you've used these channels to generate leads or build your client base.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• "Prepare to walk us through 2-3 of your most impactful projects, explaining the client's needs, your design solution, and the outcome." (Focus on storytelling, visual aids, and quantifiable results.)

• "How would you present Ethan Allen's financing options to a client who is concerned about budget?" (Demonstrate your ability to address financial considerations with confidence and professionalism.)

• "Imagine a client is undecided between two fabric options. How would you guide them to a decision?" (Showcase your consultative selling and decision-making support skills.)

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will likely be assessing your ability to blend creative design talent with a strong sales drive and operational efficiency. Demonstrating how you systematize your approach to client acquisition, design execution, and sales closure will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight your interior design experience, sales achievements, client relationship management skills, and proficiency with relevant design and CRM software. Quantify accomplishments whenever possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 of your strongest interior design projects. Ensure it clearly demonstrates your design process, problem-solving capabilities, and successful client outcomes. Be ready to present specific examples of space planning, product selection, and your use of design technology.

• Interview Practice: Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions by practicing responses that emphasize your sales acumen, client service philosophy, and ability to operate within a performance-driven environment. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Ethan Allen's brand, history, design aesthetic, product offerings, and current marketing initiatives. Understand their positioning as a premium furniture retailer and how you can contribute to their success.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.