700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

📍 Job Overview

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

Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc

Location: Alpharetta, Georgia, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales / Interior Design / Retail Operations

Date Posted: April 20, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth and client engagement by providing expert interior design solutions and consultative sales within a retail environment.

• Cultivate and expand a book of business through proactive client relationship management, in-home consultations, and effective use of digital marketing channels.

• Leverage advanced design technology and CRM systems to enhance project development, client presentations, and overall operational efficiency.

• Represent the Ethan Allen brand with professionalism, acting as a key ambassador for quality craftsmanship and personalized interior design services.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the provided title "700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt" is unconventional, the job description clearly positions this as a sales-focused interior design role within Ethan Allen's retail operations. The "700" likely refers to an internal job code. The focus is on consultative sales and client relationship management, supported by design expertise and operational tool utilization.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and present comprehensive, individualized interior design solutions that align with customer preferences, budgets, and project scope, ensuring the sale of Ethan Allen products and services.

• Conduct client needs assessments through professional in-home consultations, translating customer vision into tangible design plans and product selections.

• Proactively utilize and manage a variety of social media platforms and grassroots marketing initiatives to build and nurture a robust client base and drive business development.

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

• Maintain and contribute to the upkeep of the design center's portfolio, showcasing successful projects and design capabilities to prospective clients.

• Employ corporate systems and technology, including 3D Room Planner and CRM, to streamline project design, create compelling client presentations, and ensure efficient service delivery.

• Process customer orders accurately using the retail point-of-sale system and coordinate with internal teams to ensure seamless order fulfillment and post-sale customer satisfaction.

• Collaborate with Design Center Leadership and fellow Design Consultants to develop and execute business and marketing plans, monitoring their effectiveness and suggesting modifications to achieve goals.

• Maintain a professional and organized design center environment, contributing to a positive and inspiring customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of creative design, direct sales, client relationship management, and operational efficiency, all crucial for a successful retail design consultant role. The requirement to "contribute towards the development and on-going upkeep of the design center's portfolio" suggests an expectation for visual asset management and case study creation, common in sales-oriented design roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Minimum High School Diploma or equivalent is required.

Experience:

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

Required Skills:

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

• Proficient in consultative sales techniques and building long-lasting client relationships.

• Excellent listening, oral, and written communication skills for effective client interaction and internal collaboration.

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

• Ability to utilize social media platforms (e.g., Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn) for personal and brand promotion and network building.

• Valid driver's license and the ability to conduct in-home consultations.

Preferred Skills:

• Intermediate skill competency using digital floor planning technology; 3D applications are a plus.

• Experience using interactive visualization tools such as Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR).

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

• Experience in retail sales, particularly within the furniture or home furnishings sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "grassroots marketing" and "social media" indicates a need for proactive business development skills beyond traditional retail floor sales. The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that while some prior design exposure is necessary, the company is willing to train on specific Ethan Allen processes and technologies.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of interior design projects that demonstrate creativity, space planning expertise, and client-specific solutions.

• Include examples of fabric coordination, product selection, and overall project design, highlighting the transformation of client spaces.

• Present case studies that illustrate the consultative sales process, from initial client engagement to successful project completion and sale.

Process Documentation:

• Document the end-to-end client engagement process, from initial contact and needs assessment to design proposal, sale, and post-sale follow-up.

• Illustrate the workflow for utilizing design center technology (e.g., 3D Room Planner, CRM) to manage projects, track sales pipeline, and ensure operational efficiency.

• Detail strategies for leveraging social media and grassroots marketing for client acquisition and business development, including metrics for success.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, the job description mentions contributing to the "design center's portfolio" and utilizing technology for "creating presentations." This implies that candidates should be prepared to present examples of their design work and sales process, potentially in a visual or digital format.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

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

• Potential Annual Income: Averages $70,000 - $115,000 for experienced Design Consultants.

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

Benefits:

• Retirement: 401(k) plan with employer contributions.

• Health & Wellness: Multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage, Health Savings Account (with employer contributions), Dental Plan, Vision Plan.

• Insurance: Basic Group Term Life & Accidental Death & Dismemberment, Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D, Dependent Group Term Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, Business Travel Accident Life Insurance.

• Financial Wellness: Flexible Spending Accounts (Health Care & Dependent Care), Commuter Saving Plans (Public Transit & Parking), Voluntary Whole Life Insurance, Voluntary Critical Care Insurance, Voluntary Accident Insurance.

• Support: Employee Assistance Program.

Working Hours:

• Full-Time position, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility expected to meet client needs and sales targets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is commission-based with a recoverable draw, a common model for sales roles in retail and interior design. The estimated income ranges provide a clear picture of earning potential dependent on sales performance. The extensive list of benefits highlights Ethan Allen's commitment to employee well-being. The "Recoverable Draw" means that the initial salary is an advance against future commissions.

🎯 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 state-of-the-art technology integration with personalized service.

Company Size: Large Enterprise (likely over 1,000 employees based on typical retail operations of this scale). This size offers stability and structured career paths.

Founded: Over 90 years ago. This longevity signifies market stability, established brand reputation, and deep industry expertise.

Team Structure:

• The role operates within a Design Center, likely managed by a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader.

• Collaboration is expected among Design Consultants, potentially forming partnerships for complex projects.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Utilizing CRM and design software to track client interactions, project progress, and sales performance.

• Client-Centric Approach: Prioritizing individualized design solutions and building long-term customer relationships.

• Process Optimization: Employing technology and lean methodologies to enhance efficiency in design, sales, and order processing.

• Brand Advocacy: Upholding Ethan Allen's reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and exceptional customer service.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Ethan Allen's emphasis on "making about 75% of our custom-crafted products in our North American workshops" points to a strong emphasis on quality, craftsmanship, and domestic manufacturing, which can be a selling point for clients and a point of pride for employees. The company's long history and financial stability are also key cultural indicators.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an entry to mid-level sales and design professional. It serves as a foundational role within Ethan Allen's Design Centers, focusing on direct client interaction and revenue generation.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader, who oversees the overall performance of the design center and its sales team.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is direct revenue generation through sales. Additionally, by fostering strong client relationships and delivering exceptional design experiences, Design Consultants contribute to customer loyalty, brand advocacy, and the overall success and reputation of the local Design Center and Ethan Allen as a whole.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant: Progression to a more senior role with increased sales targets, potentially mentoring junior staff, and handling more complex or high-profile client projects.

• Design Sales Leadership: Opportunity to move into management roles such as Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader, responsible for team performance, business development, and operational oversight of a Design Center.

• Specialization: Development into a specialist in specific product categories (e.g., custom upholstery, outdoor living) or client segments (e.g., trade program clients).

• Cross-Functional Moves: Potential opportunities within Ethan Allen's broader retail operations, marketing, or e-commerce divisions based on demonstrated skills and interests.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path clearly moves from individual contributor sales and design to leadership or specialized roles. The mention of "potential income for our experienced Design Consultants average $70,000-$115,000/year" suggests that significant growth in earnings is tied directly to sales performance and experience.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a retail design center environment. It combines a showroom floor displaying Ethan Allen's furniture and decor with private or semi-private design consultation areas. The atmosphere is professional, client-focused, and aims to be inspiring and comfortable.

Office Location(s): Alpharetta, Georgia. This location is a suburban commercial hub, likely with good accessibility for clients and professionals.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Design Consultants work alongside peers, sharing best practices and supporting each other to meet collective Design Center goals.

• Technology-Enabled: Access to contemporary design software (e.g., 3D Room Planner), CRM systems, and interactive visualization tools is provided to support client presentations and project management.

• Client-Facing: The workspace is designed for client interaction, requiring a professional appearance and demeanor at all times. The showroom serves as a constant source of inspiration and product knowledge.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site position. While a standard work week is expected, flexibility is crucial to accommodate client appointments, including evenings and weekends, which are common in retail sales environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is critical. Design Consultants need to be physically present to interact with clients, manage the showroom, and utilize physical product samples and displays. The flexibility required for client appointments is a key characteristic of retail sales roles.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with basic qualifications (experience, education, skills).

• Phone/Video Interview: An initial conversation with a recruiter or hiring manager to discuss your background, interest in Ethan Allen, and understanding of the role and sales/design principles.

• In-Person Interview & Skills Assessment: This will likely involve meeting with the Design Center Leader and potentially other team members. You may be asked to present a design concept, discuss your sales approach, and demonstrate your familiarity with design tools. A case study or design challenge may be presented.

• Final Interview: Potentially a meeting with a regional manager or senior leadership for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your design aesthetic, problem-solving skills, and ability to meet client needs within budget.

• Showcase Process: For each project, illustrate the journey: client brief, initial concepts, challenges faced, design solutions, and the final outcome. Highlight how you used space planning, fabric coordination, and product selection.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, include metrics or qualitative feedback on client satisfaction, project scope, or sales generated. Since this is a sales role, demonstrating your ability to convert design into revenue is crucial.

• Digital Presentation: Be prepared to present your portfolio digitally using tools like PowerPoint, Keynote, or a dedicated online portfolio platform. Ensure it is visually appealing, easy to navigate, and professional.

• Tailor to Ethan Allen: If possible, showcase projects that align with Ethan Allen's style and brand, demonstrating an understanding of their market and aesthetic.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Visualization: Practice using 3D room planning software. Be ready to sketch layouts or concepts on the spot.

• Sales Scenarios: Prepare for role-playing exercises where you might handle client objections, present design solutions, or close a sale.

• Brand Knowledge: Research Ethan Allen's history, product lines, design philosophy, and current marketing initiatives. Understand their competitive landscape.

• Social Media Strategy: Be ready to discuss how you would leverage social media and grassroots marketing to build a client base and promote Ethan Allen within your local market.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "portfolio" and "design solutions" suggests that candidates should come prepared with visual examples of their work. Given the sales component, demonstrating how design skills translate into revenue is paramount. The interview process likely includes a blend of sales assessment and design evaluation.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• CRM System: To manage client relationships, track leads, schedule appointments, and monitor sales pipeline progress.

• 3D Room Planner / Digital Floor Planning Technology: Essential for creating visual design concepts, space planning, and presenting layouts to clients. Examples could include specialized software like SketchUp, AutoCAD (less likely for retail), or proprietary Ethan Allen tools.

• Interactive Visualization Tools: Experience with AR/VR or similar technologies for immersive design presentations is a plus.

Analytics & Reporting:

CRM & Automation:

• CRM: As mentioned, a core tool for client management and sales process automation.

• Social Media Platforms: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, etc., for marketing, client engagement, and network building.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with digital design tools and CRM is explicitly mentioned. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with these systems and their ability to learn new technologies. The mention of "Live Chat" suggests potential integration with online customer service tools.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Client-Centricity: A core value is prioritizing customer needs and delivering exceptional personalized service that leads to long-term relationships and satisfaction.

• Quality & Craftsmanship: Upholding the Ethan Allen brand reputation for high-quality, custom-crafted furniture and artisan accents.

• Professionalism & Brand Ambassadorship: Representing the Ethan Allen brand with integrity, style, and excellent interpersonal skills in all interactions.

• Sales Drive & Goal Orientation: A strong emphasis on achieving and exceeding sales targets through proactive selling, business development, and continuous improvement.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working cooperatively with colleagues to ensure a seamless customer experience and contribute to the overall success of the Design Center.

Collaboration Style:

• Consultative & Supportive: Team members are expected to support each other in achieving sales goals and providing comprehensive client service. This includes sharing insights, covering for colleagues, and collaborating on larger projects.

• Process-Oriented: Adherence to established sales processes, design methodologies, and operational procedures to ensure consistency and efficiency.

• Feedback-Driven: A culture that likely encourages constructive feedback to foster continuous improvement in design skills, sales techniques, and client engagement strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to be a blend of creative design, high-performance sales, and strong customer service, all within the framework of a well-established retail brand. The emphasis on "entrepreneurial drive" and "building long-lasting relationships" suggests a dynamic and client-focused environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Sales Targets: The commission-based compensation means consistent pressure to meet or exceed sales benchmarks. This requires strong sales acumen, effective client conversion, and proactive business development.

• Building a Client Base: Especially for newer consultants, establishing a steady stream of clients through social media and grassroots efforts can be challenging and requires consistent effort.

• Balancing Design Creativity with Sales Objectives: Effectively translating creative design ideas into products that meet client budgets and also drive profitable sales.

• Staying Current with Trends and Technology: The design world and sales technologies evolve rapidly, requiring continuous learning to maintain expertise.

• Managing Client Expectations: Navigating diverse client needs, preferences, and budgets while ensuring satisfaction and closing sales.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product & Design Training: Comprehensive training on Ethan Allen's extensive product lines, materials, customization options, and interior design best practices.

• Sales Methodology Training: Development in consultative selling techniques, client objection handling, and closing strategies specifically tailored for the furniture and design industry.

• Technology Proficiency: Training on proprietary Ethan Allen design software, CRM, and other digital tools to maximize efficiency and client engagement.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Consultants and Leadership, gaining insights into successful business development and client management strategies.

• Industry Exposure: Potential for participation in industry events or trade shows to stay abreast of design trends and network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly tied to the sales-driven nature of the role and the competitive retail environment. Growth opportunities are focused on enhancing both design expertise and sales performance, leading to increased earning potential and career advancement within the company.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully used social media to generate leads or build a client relationship. How would you apply this to promoting Ethan Allen?" (Focus on actionable strategies, target audiences, and engagement metrics.)

• "Walk me through your process for creating an interior design plan for a client. What steps do you take from initial consultation to final presentation?" (Highlight your consultative approach, space planning, product selection rationale, and use of design tools.)

• "How do you handle a client who loves a design but finds it over their budget?" (Demonstrate your ability to offer alternatives, adjust scope, and maintain client satisfaction while still achieving a sale.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ethan Allen's brand and its position in the market?" (Research their history, product lines, reputation for quality, and their commitment to custom craftsmanship.)

• "How do you see yourself contributing to the success and culture of our Design Center team?" (Emphasize teamwork, a proactive sales attitude, and your commitment to client satisfaction.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: For each project, tell a compelling story: Who was the client? What were their needs and challenges? How did your design solve their problems? What was the outcome?

• Visual Clarity: Use high-quality images and clear renderings. Ensure your presentation is clean, professional, and easy to follow.

• Focus on Sales Impact: Where possible, subtly weave in how your design solutions led to sales and client satisfaction.

• Tech Demonstration: Be ready to briefly demonstrate your comfort with design software if asked, perhaps by showing a rendered space.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your key projects within a given timeframe, highlighting the most impactful elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of design talent, sales prowess, and a deep understanding of client relationships and business development. Demonstrating an understanding of Ethan Allen's brand and market is crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce hiring platform.

• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your interior design experience, sales achievements, customer service skills, and any experience with design software (e.g., 3D Room Planner, CRM) and social media marketing. Quantify your successes where possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a digital portfolio showcasing 3-5 of your best design projects. Focus on demonstrating your design process, client consultation skills, and ability to create cohesive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing spaces. Be ready to discuss how your designs translate into sales.

• Research Ethan Allen: Familiarize yourself with Ethan Allen's brand history, product lines, design philosophy, and current marketing efforts. Understand their commitment to quality and custom craftsmanship.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions related to design, sales, client management, and problem-solving. Practice articulating your approach to client consultations, handling objections, and driving sales.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description has been created by analyzing the provided text and incorporating industry best practices for sales and design roles. It includes inferred details about responsibilities, qualifications, compensation, and the application process. Candidates should verify all details directly with Ethan Allen Global Inc. during the application and interview stages.