700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant - RE-Design Consultant

Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc

Location: Cincinnati, Ohio, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Retail Sales & Interior Design

Date Posted: May 28, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by developing and selling comprehensive interior design solutions and Ethan Allen products to a diverse client base.

• Cultivate and manage client relationships through personalized consultations, in-home visits, and proactive digital engagement.

• Leverage advanced design tools and social media platforms to expand business reach and build a strong personal brand within the market.

• Collaborate with design center teams to achieve collective sales targets and maintain a high standard of customer service throughout the sales cycle.

• Contribute to the development and upkeep of the design center's portfolio, showcasing successful projects and design capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role, while titled "Design Consultant," has significant revenue generation and client acquisition responsibilities, aligning it with GTM (Go-To-Market) operations, particularly in direct sales and client relationship management. The emphasis on sales goals, client acquisition via marketing and social media, and the commission-based compensation structure highlight its operational impact on revenue.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and present individualized interior design solutions, including space planning, fabric coordination, and product selection, to meet customer preferences and budgets.

• Conduct in-home consultations to assess client needs, measure spaces, and provide comprehensive design proposals that drive sales.

• Proactively engage with potential and existing clients through various channels, including in-person interactions, phone calls, emails, and social media platforms, to build rapport and secure appointments.

• Utilize digital tools such as 3D Room Planners, CRM systems, and visualization technologies (AR/VR) to create compelling design presentations and enhance the client experience.

• Drive sales of Ethan Allen products and services, with a specific focus on increasing sales of accents and soft goods to meet or exceed monthly sales benchmarks.

• Implement grassroots marketing and social media strategies (e.g., blogs, online forums, content sharing) to expand client base and promote the Ethan Allen brand.

• Educate clients on available financing options and the complimentary design services offered by Ethan Allen.

• Coordinate with the design team and other associates to ensure seamless customer service before and after the sale, including timely order status updates and issue resolution.

• Maintain a professional and organized design center environment, ensuring product displays and showroom areas are well-maintained.

• Actively participate in corporate-sponsored marketing initiatives and training programs to enhance design and sales skills.

• Enter customer orders accurately using the retail point-of-sale (POS) system.

• Collaborate with Design Center Leaders and peers to develop and execute business and marketing plans aimed at expanding market reach and achieving sales objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design, direct sales, and proactive client acquisition, which are critical components of Go-To-Market (GTM) operations. The responsibility to "develop business plans and grass roots marketing plans" and "monitor effectiveness of the plans" indicates a strategic operational component where the consultant is expected to contribute to market development beyond individual sales.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent.

Experience:

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

• Proven experience in sales techniques and client relationship management.

Required Skills:

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

• Proficient in space planning and fabric coordination.

• Strong sales acumen and persuasive communication skills.

• Excellent listening skills with exceptional oral and written communication abilities.

• Working knowledge of online sales and design tools, including digital floor planning technology.

• Ability to conduct in-home consultations and develop comprehensive design solutions.

• Proficiency in using social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) for business development.

Preferred Skills:

• Intermediate to advanced skill competency using 3D digital floor planning applications.

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

• Familiarity with CRM systems for client management and sales tracking.

• Ability to learn and adapt to new technologies quickly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a valid driver's license and the emphasis on "home calls" indicate a field-based sales operation. The mention of "Minimum Monthly Sales" and specific sales benchmarks (Home Calls, Accent Sales, Softgood Sales, Be-Backs, PI, Close Ratio) underscores the performance-driven nature of this role, common in sales operations and GTM roles focused on direct revenue generation.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 3-5 diverse interior design projects, demonstrating a range of styles and client needs.

• Include visual examples of space plans, mood boards, product selections, and final room renderings or actual project photos.

• Highlight projects that demonstrate successful client engagement, from initial consultation through project completion.

• Quantify achievements where possible, such as client satisfaction levels, project scope, or budget adherence.

Process Documentation:

• Document the typical client engagement process from lead generation to sale closing, detailing key touchpoints and activities.

• Outline the workflow for conducting in-home consultations, including needs assessment, measurement, and proposal development.

• Describe methods for utilizing design software and CRM tools to manage client interactions, track sales progress, and maintain project details.

• Explain strategies for leveraging social media and grassroots marketing to generate leads and build a client pipeline.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement to "Contribute towards the development and on-going upkeep of the design center’s portfolio" and the emphasis on using "corporate systems and technology to maximize efficiency" points to a need for candidates who can not only execute but also document and optimize operational workflows for design and sales.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

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

• Potential Average Income: $70,000 - $115,000 per year for experienced Design Consultants.

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 Insurance.

• Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance.

• Dependent Group Term Life Insurance.

• Short-Term Disability.

• Long-Term Disability.

• Business Travel Accident Life Insurance.

• Flexible Spending Accounts (Health Care & Dependent Care).

• Commuter Saving Plans (Public Transit & Parking).

• Voluntary Whole Life Insurance.

• Voluntary Critical Care Insurance.

• Voluntary Accident Insurance.

• Employee Assistance Program.

Working Hours:

• Full-Time position, typically 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is commission-based, with a "recoverable draw" system that is common in sales roles. This structure directly links individual performance to earnings, emphasizing the sales operations aspect of the role. The potential for high earnings ($200k+) indicates a strong performance incentive aligned with GTM revenue targets.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Home Furnishings Retail & Interior Design. Ethan Allen is recognized as America's #1 Premium Furniture Retailer by Newsweek, known for its custom-crafted products and complimentary interior design services.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (Ethan Allen Global Inc. is a well-established, publicly traded company with a global presence). This size implies structured processes, established market presence, and potential for career advancement.

Founded: Over 90 years ago, indicating a long-standing reputation, stability, and deep industry experience.

Team Structure:

• Design Consultants work within a Design Center, likely reporting to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader.

• Collaboration is expected with other Design Consultants for shared client support, business planning, and maintaining the showroom.

Methodology:

• Data-driven decision-making, particularly regarding sales performance metrics, marketing plan effectiveness, and client acquisition strategies.

• Customer-centric approach, focusing on personalized design solutions and relationship-based selling.

• Emphasis on quality craftsmanship and brand representation in all client interactions.

• Adoption of technology for design, sales, and client management to enhance efficiency and customer experience.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's emphasis on "personal service," "entrepreneurial drive," and "building long-lasting relationships" suggests a culture that values client engagement and individual initiative within a structured framework, common in retail operations and GTM environments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents an individual contributor position focused on direct revenue generation and client development within the retail and design sector. It is an entry to mid-level sales and design role.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader, who oversees the performance of the design sales team and the overall operations of the design center.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts the company's revenue through sales of furniture and design services. The consultant's ability to generate leads, close deals, and foster repeat business is a key operational driver for the company's financial success.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Develop expertise in specific design styles, product categories (e.g., custom furniture, soft goods), or client segments (e.g., trade professionals).

• Leadership: Advance to roles such as Senior Design Consultant, Design Center Leader, or Sales Manager, overseeing teams and driving sales strategy for a location.

• Skill Development: Expand proficiency in advanced design software, sales methodologies, and digital marketing techniques, potentially leading to specialized roles within GTM or sales operations.

• Mentorship: Become a mentor to new Design Consultants, sharing best practices in client acquisition, design execution, and sales operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The clear path from Design Consultant to leadership roles like Design Center Leader indicates a structured career progression within the sales and retail operations framework. The emphasis on developing a "book of business" and exceeding sales benchmarks aligns with typical growth trajectories in GTM roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily based in an Ethan Allen Design Center showroom. This environment is client-facing and requires a professional, aesthetically pleasing presentation.

Office Location(s): Cincinnati, Ohio, with potential for home visits within the surrounding service area.

Workspace Context:

• The Design Center provides a showroom for product display and client consultations, equipped with design tools and technology.

• Collaboration with colleagues will occur within the showroom and potentially through virtual meetings.

• The role involves both in-showroom client interactions and off-site client visits (home calls).

• Access to design software, CRM, and other technology tools is essential for daily operations.

Work Schedule: Full-time, which typically includes evenings and weekends, as these are peak shopping times for retail and design services. Flexibility is often required to accommodate client availability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement and the blend of showroom and in-home client interactions define the operational environment. The need for a "neat and orderly design center projection" highlights the importance of maintaining a professional brand presence, a key aspect of retail operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and application to assess qualifications, experience, and alignment with the role's sales and design requirements.

• First Interview: Typically with a hiring manager (e.g., Design Center Leader) to discuss experience, design philosophy, sales approach, and cultural fit. May involve situational questions related to client interactions and sales scenarios.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present their design portfolio, showcasing their best work, design process, and ability to articulate design solutions and sales outcomes. This is a critical component for evaluating practical skills.

• Skills Assessment: Potential for a practical assessment, such as a design challenge or a role-playing exercise simulating a client consultation or sales pitch.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with additional leadership or team members to confirm fit and discuss compensation structure in detail.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best demonstrate your interior design skills, client management capabilities, and ability to drive sales. Include a variety of project types and styles.

• Tell a Story: For each project, clearly articulate the client's needs, your design approach, the solutions you implemented, and the positive outcomes (e.g., client satisfaction, successful sale).

• Quantify Results: Where possible, include metrics such as budget adherence, project scope, or the value of products sold.

• Showcase Process: Include examples of your design process, such as mood boards, space plans, product selections, and final renderings or photos.

• Highlight Technology Use: If applicable, demonstrate how you used design software, CRM, or other tools to enhance the client experience or drive sales.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Scenarios: Prepare to discuss how you would handle common sales objections, upsell opportunities, and challenging client requests.

• Design Problem-Solving: Be ready to walk through a design challenge, explaining your thought process, how you'd gather client requirements, and present solutions.

• Brand Alignment: Research Ethan Allen's brand, product lines, and design aesthetic to articulate how your style and approach align with the company's offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio presentation and the potential for a design challenge or role-playing exercise are crucial for this role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate both their creative design capabilities and their sales acumen, which are intertwined in this position.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Room Planner/Digital Floor Planning Technology: Essential for creating client visualizations, space planning, and product placement. Proficiency in these tools is a key requirement.

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

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management) System: To manage client information, track interactions, sales pipeline, and nurture leads.

• Live Chat Technology: Likely used for initial client engagement and lead qualification.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, blogs, micro-blogs, content sharing websites – used for marketing, lead generation, and relationship building.

• Visualization Tools: Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and other interactive visualization tools are considered a plus and indicate a forward-thinking technology adoption.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific mention of "3D Room Planner," "CRM," and "Live Chat" highlights the operational technology stack. The expectation to "Utilize all technology... to maximize efficiency" underscores the importance of technological proficiency in this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: Prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional, personalized design experiences.

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

• Collaboration: Working effectively with team members to support clients, achieve sales goals, and maintain the showroom.

• Professionalism: Representing the Ethan Allen brand with integrity and a polished demeanor in all interactions.

• Entrepreneurial Drive: Proactively seeking opportunities to grow business, build client relationships, and exceed performance expectations.

• Continuous Improvement: Willingness to learn new technologies and design trends to stay competitive and enhance service delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Team-Oriented: Expected to work cooperatively with other design consultants and leadership to ensure a seamless client experience and efficient showroom operation.

• Proactive Communication: Regularly informing clients and colleagues about order status, project updates, and potential issues.

• Knowledge Sharing: Contributing to the collective success of the design center through sharing insights on design trends, sales strategies, and effective use of technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values "talent, entrepreneurial drive, and the ability to build long-lasting relationships," which directly informs the expected team culture and collaboration style for Design Consultants.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Performance-Based Compensation: The commission-driven structure requires consistent high performance to achieve desired income levels, posing a challenge for those who struggle with sales targets.

• Client Acquisition: Developing and maintaining a steady pipeline of qualified leads through grassroots marketing and social media can be demanding.

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively blending creative design expertise with persuasive sales techniques to close deals.

• Market Competition: Differentiating Ethan Allen's offerings and services in a competitive home furnishings market.

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

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Design Skill Enhancement: Access to ongoing training on new product lines, design trends, and advanced design techniques.

• Sales Methodology Training: Opportunities to refine sales skills, negotiation tactics, and client management strategies.

• Technology Adoption: Training on new design software, CRM functionalities, and digital marketing tools.

• Business Development: Learning how to effectively build and manage a personal client book and develop marketing plans.

• Career Advancement: Potential to move into leadership positions within Ethan Allen's retail network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents a significant opportunity for growth in both design and sales operations, with a clear path for advancement within a well-established company. The challenges are typical of high-performance sales roles in competitive markets.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing an interior design proposal from initial client consultation to final presentation. How do you ensure it aligns with both client needs and sales objectives?"

• "How do you leverage social media and grassroots marketing to build your client base and drive sales for a retail design business?"

• "Walk me through a challenging client interaction you've had. How did you resolve it, and what was the outcome?"

• "How do you approach space planning for a room with specific constraints or unique architectural features?"

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ethan Allen's brand and product offerings? How do you see your design style aligning with the company's aesthetic?"

• "How do you stay current with interior design trends and incorporate them into your client recommendations while also meeting sales targets?"

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with team members."

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio logically. Start with a brief overview of your design philosophy and approach. Then, present 3-5 key projects, dedicating a few slides or pages to each.

• Storytelling: For each project, clearly outline the client's problem/need, your proposed solution (designs, products), the process you followed, and the successful outcome (e.g., sale closed, client satisfaction).

• Visuals: Use high-quality images of your work. Include sketches, mood boards, floor plans, and final renderings or photos.

• Metrics: Quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "Increased average sale value by X%," "Secured Y% of leads through social media outreach").

• Technology Showcase: If you used specific software or tools for a project, highlight them and explain their benefit.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio within a defined timeframe, focusing on the most impactful aspects of your work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of both the design and sales aspects of the role. Candidates must be ready to articulate their process, showcase their portfolio effectively, and demonstrate how they can drive revenue for Ethan Allen.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio that highlights your interior design projects, emphasizing space planning, client solutions, and successful sales outcomes. Tailor it to showcase how your skills align with Ethan Allen's brand and product offerings.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience in interior design, sales, client relationship management, and proficiency with relevant design and CRM software. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your design process, sales strategies, and how you utilize technology to drive business. Prepare to present your portfolio and answer scenario-based questions related to client interactions and sales challenges.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Ethan Allen's history, brand values, product lines, and current marketing initiatives. Understand their commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and complimentary design services.

⚠️ 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.