700 - Designers - RE-Design Consultant - Exempt

📍 Job Overview

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

Company: Ethan Allen Global Inc

Location: Lexington, Kentucky, United States

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales Operations & Design Consulting

Date Posted: April 15, 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth through personalized interior design solutions and consultative sales of Ethan Allen products and services.

• Leverage digital tools, social media, and in-home consultations to build a strong client base and achieve individual and Design Center sales targets.

• Act as a brand ambassador, embodying Ethan Allen's commitment to quality craftsmanship, personal service, and design excellence.

• Collaborate with a team of design professionals to deliver exceptional customer experiences from initial consultation through post-sale support.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role bridges design and sales, requiring a candidate who can translate creative vision into tangible sales outcomes. The "Exempt" designation suggests a professional role with a focus on client relationships and sales performance, typical for commission-based roles in retail environments. The emphasis on "RE-Design Consultant" implies a focus on both new client acquisition and potentially refreshing existing client spaces.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

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

• Proactively engage with potential clients in the Design Center and through in-home consultations to build rapport, understand needs, and close sales.

• Utilize a multi-channel approach, including social media platforms (blogs, micro-blogs, content sharing sites) and grassroots marketing, to expand business reach and cultivate new client relationships.

• Educate clients on Ethan Allen's complimentary design services, financing options, and the full range of home furnishings and artisan-crafted accents.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of current design trends, color palettes, and product offerings to create fashionable and relevant design solutions.

• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure seamless customer service, providing timely order status updates and addressing any post-sale inquiries or concerns.

• Participate actively in all corporate-sponsored marketing initiatives and training programs to enhance design skills, sales techniques, and product knowledge.

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

• Employ corporate systems and technology, such as 3D Room Planners and CRM, to optimize design project efficiency, presentation quality, and client relationship management.

• Process customer orders accurately using the retail point-of-sale system.

• Maintain a well-organized and visually appealing Design Center environment.

• Collaborate with the Design Center Leader and other consultants to develop and execute business and marketing plans aimed at increasing market reach and exceeding sales goals.

• Leverage interactive technology and visualization tools (e.g., augmented reality, virtual reality) to enhance client presentations and design concept exploration.

• Actively build and nurture a professional network through social media platforms like LinkedIn to expand market presence and identify potential referral sources.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of creative design, direct sales, client relationship management, and digital marketing. The emphasis on "closing the sale" and meeting "Minimum Monthly Sales" benchmarks indicates a strong performance-driven culture. The requirement to maintain a "neat and orderly design center projection" and contribute to the "design center's portfolio" suggests a need for visual merchandising skills and a proactive approach to showcasing company offerings.

🎓 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 is highly preferred.

Required Skills:

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

• Effective sales techniques and consultative selling abilities.

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written).

• Ability to build rapport and lasting relationships with clients.

• Proficiency in using digital floor planning technology and 3D design applications.

• Working knowledge of CRM systems for client management and sales tracking.

• Skill in utilizing social media platforms for business development and brand promotion.

• Ability to work cooperatively in a team environment and maintain a professional demeanor.

Preferred Skills:

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

• Demonstrated ability to learn and adapt to new technologies quickly.

• Experience with retail point-of-sale (POS) systems.

• Understanding of financing options and ability to educate clients on them.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level is relatively entry-level, but the emphasis on practical interior design experience and sales acumen suggests that candidates with a strong portfolio and demonstrated sales aptitude, even with less than a year of formal experience, might be considered. The "Exempt" title combined with incentive-based compensation implies that performance is key to overall earnings.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a range of interior design projects demonstrating space planning, color theory, fabric coordination, and product selection skills.

• Include examples of how design solutions met specific client needs, budgets, and aesthetic preferences.

• Highlight projects that involved collaboration, either with clients or internal teams, to achieve a successful outcome.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate an understanding of the full design process from initial client consultation and needs assessment to final installation and post-sale follow-up.

• Provide examples of how you have used digital tools (e.g., 3D Room Planner, CRM) to manage projects, track client interactions, and streamline the design and sales process.

• Illustrate your approach to developing marketing plans and utilizing social media for business development, including strategies for client acquisition and engagement.

• Show how you have managed client expectations, communicated project status, and resolved issues to ensure a positive customer experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, the job description heavily implies the need for candidates to demonstrate their design capabilities and sales success. A strong portfolio showcasing completed projects, design concepts, and client testimonials will be crucial for differentiating candidates. The emphasis on "developing business plans and grass roots marketing plans" suggests that candidates should be prepared to discuss their strategies for client acquisition and market penetration.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

The base compensation is structured as a recoverable draw, typically ranging from $30,000 to $70,000 annually, dependent on written sales.

The potential annual income for experienced Design Consultants averages $70,000-$115,000.

Top performers can earn $200,000 per year or more.

Benefits:

Ethan Allen offers a comprehensive benefits package, with availability varying based on full-time or part-time status:

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

• Health & Wellness:

  • Multiple Medical Plans with Prescription Drug Coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA) with employer contributions.
  • Dental Plan.
  • Vision Plan.
  • Short and Long-Term Disability insurance.
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Life & Accident Insurance:

  • Basic Group Term Life Insurance.
  • Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance.
  • Supplemental Group Term Life & AD&D Insurance.
  • Dependent Group Term Life Insurance.
  • Business Travel Accident Life Insurance.

• Other Financial Benefits:

  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) for Health Care and Dependent Care.
  • Commuter Saving Plans for Public Transit and Parking.
  • Voluntary Whole Life Insurance.
  • Voluntary Critical Care Insurance.

Working Hours:

• Voluntary Accident Insurance. This is a Full-Time position. While specific hours are not detailed, roles involving client consultations and in-home visits often require flexibility, including potential evening and weekend work, to accommodate client schedules. The standard workday is likely 8 hours per day.

📝 Enhancement Note: The compensation structure is heavily commission-based, with a recoverable draw providing a safety net. The significant earning potential for top performers ($200k+) highlights the opportunity for highly successful sales professionals. The extensive benefits package is competitive and comprehensive, catering to various employee needs. The "Exempt" status typically means the role is not eligible for overtime pay, reinforcing the focus on performance and commission.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Furniture Retail & Interior Design. Ethan Allen is recognized as a leading interior design destination, combining advanced technology with personalized service.

Company Size: Ethan Allen Global Inc is a large, established company with a significant retail footprint across North America and a reputation for quality craftsmanship. Specific company size data (e.g., employee count) is not provided in the raw input but is generally understood to be a substantial organization.

Founded: Founded over 90 years ago, Ethan Allen has a long-standing history and an enduring reputation for quality and craftsmanship, with approximately 75% of its custom-crafted products made in North American workshops.

Team Structure:

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

• Design Consultants work collaboratively, sharing responsibilities for customer service and contributing to the overall success of the Design Center.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with internal teams to ensure exceptional customer service throughout the sales and delivery process.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Design: Focus on creating individualized design solutions that align with customer preferences and budgets.

• Data-Driven Sales: Utilizing performance metrics (Minimum Monthly Sales, Home Calls, Close Ratio, etc.) to drive individual and team success.

• Technology Integration: Employing corporate systems (CRM, 3D Room Planner, Live Chat) to enhance efficiency and client engagement.

• Brand Stewardship: Acting as brand ambassadors, representing Ethan Allen's quality and service standards.

• Continuous Improvement: Participating in training and marketing programs, and contributing to business plan development and modification.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Ethan Allen's culture appears to value craftsmanship, client relationships, and entrepreneurial drive. The emphasis on "associates are our greatest brand ambassadors" suggests a focus on employee engagement and representation of company values. The long history and commitment to North American manufacturing underscore a dedication to quality and heritage.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This "Designer - RE-Design Consultant" role is positioned at an entry to mid-level within the sales and design function of Ethan Allen. It requires foundational interior design knowledge and practical sales experience, with significant earning potential tied directly to performance.

Reporting Structure: Design Consultants typically report to a Design Center Leader or Design Sales Leader. This leader is responsible for overseeing sales performance, team development, and operational efficiency within the Design Center.

Operations Impact: The primary impact of this role is direct revenue generation through sales of Ethan Allen products and services. By providing expert design consultations and closing sales, these consultants directly contribute to the company's financial performance and market share. Their ability to build client relationships also fosters brand loyalty and repeat business, impacting long-term revenue stability.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Leadership: Advancement to Design Center Leader or other management roles within retail operations, overseeing a team and driving overall sales strategy.

• Senior Design Consultant: Becoming a top performer, potentially mentoring junior consultants, and earning significantly higher commissions.

• Specialization: Developing expertise in specific product categories or design styles, becoming a go-to resource within the organization.

• Brand Ambassador Roles: Potentially moving into roles focused on brand representation, training, or advanced client management.

• Continuous Learning: Opportunities to stay current with design trends and technology through corporate training programs and industry engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Designer," the core function and compensation structure lean heavily towards sales. Growth opportunities will primarily be in sales performance and potentially retail management. The "RE-Design Consultant" aspect might also open doors to roles focused on client retention and account management within the design space.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site position within an Ethan Allen Design Center. These centers are retail showrooms designed to showcase furniture, décor, and design services.

Office Location(s): Lexington, Kentucky. The specific address will be within a retail area or a dedicated Ethan Allen Design Center.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace is a retail showroom environment, requiring a professional appearance and a welcoming demeanor for clients.

• Access to design tools, samples, product catalogs, and technology (3D Room Planner, CRM, POS systems) is integral to the role.

• Collaboration with other design consultants and leadership within the Design Center is a key aspect of the daily work environment.

Work Schedule:

This is a Full-Time position, typically requiring approximately 40 hours per week. Given the client-facing nature and commission structure, the schedule will likely include evenings and weekends to accommodate customer availability and maximize sales opportunities. Flexibility is essential.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement means candidates must be comfortable working in a retail showroom setting. The environment is dynamic, client-focused, and performance-driven, with a strong emphasis on visual presentation and personal interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: Application review and potential phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and interest in the role and company.

2. Interview(s): Likely involves interviews with the hiring manager (Design Center Leader/Design Sales Leader) and possibly other senior design consultants. These interviews will focus on design aptitude, sales experience, client relationship skills, and cultural fit.

3. Portfolio Presentation: Candidates will likely be asked to present a portfolio showcasing their interior design work, demonstrating their ability to create compelling design solutions and achieve client objectives. This may also include discussing their sales approach and how they have driven business results.

4. Skills Assessment: Potential for a practical exercise, such as a design challenge or a role-playing scenario simulating a client consultation.

5. Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with higher-level management, followed by a job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Design Versatility: Include a range of projects that demonstrate your ability to work with different styles, budgets, and client needs.

• Highlight Client-Centricity: Emphasize how your designs addressed specific client challenges and preferences, leading to successful outcomes.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, include metrics related to sales closed, client satisfaction, or project scope.

• Demonstrate Process: Explain your design process from initial consultation through to completion, including how you utilize tools and technology.

• Integrate Sales Acumen: Frame your design work within a sales context, showing how your design skills directly contributed to closing business.

• Be Prepared to Discuss: Be ready to talk through each project in detail, explaining your design rationale and any challenges you overcame.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: Be prepared for a task that might involve selecting furniture for a specific room based on a brief, or creating a mood board and preliminary layout. Focus on demonstrating your understanding of space planning, color, and product selection relevant to Ethan Allen's offerings.

• Sales Role-Play: Practice simulating a client consultation, focusing on active listening, needs assessment, presenting solutions, and handling objections.

• Business Development Discussion: Be ready to articulate your strategies for client acquisition, using social media, and building a local client base.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely be a blend of assessing design talent and sales capability. The portfolio is crucial, and candidates should ensure it highlights their ability to translate creative vision into profitable sales. The "RE-Design Consultant" aspect might mean interviewers probe for strategies on re-engaging past clients or updating existing spaces.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Room Planner/Design Software: Essential for creating visual representations of design solutions, space planning, and product placement. Ethan Allen likely uses proprietary or industry-standard software.

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

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) System: For managing client information, tracking interactions, scheduling follow-ups, and nurturing leads. This is critical for building and maintaining client relationships.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Performance Dashboards: Tools used by management to track individual and Design Center sales metrics (e.g., Minimum Monthly Sales, Close Ratio, Accent Sales, Softgood Sales). Consultants will need to understand how their performance contributes to these reports.

• CRM Analytics: To track lead conversion rates, customer engagement, and sales pipeline health.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Software: As mentioned, a robust CRM is key for managing the client lifecycle.

• Live Chat Tools: Potentially used on the company website for initial client engagement and lead generation.

• Social Media Management Tools: For scheduling posts, monitoring engagement, and analyzing social media marketing efforts.

• Integration Tools: While not explicitly mentioned, seamless integration between POS, CRM, and design software is assumed for operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with design software and CRM is paramount. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with similar tools and their ability to quickly learn new technologies. The emphasis on "utilize all technology" suggests a forward-thinking company that expects its consultants to be tech-savvy.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Quality & Craftsmanship: A core value, reflected in Ethan Allen's North American manufacturing and product durability. Professionals are expected to understand and communicate this value to clients.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing individual customer needs, preferences, and budgets to deliver personalized design solutions and exceptional service.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Representing the Ethan Allen brand with honesty, transparency, and a high level of professionalism in all interactions.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve shared goals, support customer needs, and maintain an efficient Design Center environment.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Encouraging initiative, proactive business development, and a drive to exceed sales targets.

• Innovation & Adaptability: Embracing new technologies and design trends to stay competitive and provide cutting-edge solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Client-Centric Collaboration: The primary collaboration revolves around serving the client's needs, pooling expertise within the Design Center to offer comprehensive solutions.

• Performance-Oriented Teamwork: While individual sales are crucial, there's an expectation of supporting team initiatives and contributing to the overall success of the Design Center.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of design insights, sales strategies, and best practices among team members.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to receiving and providing constructive feedback to improve individual performance and team effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to balance individual achievement with team contribution, emphasizing a strong client-centric approach and a commitment to quality. Candidates who can demonstrate these values in their past experiences will be well-aligned.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Sales Quotas: The primary challenge is consistently meeting or exceeding minimum monthly sales targets in a commission-based environment.

• Client Acquisition & Retention: Developing a robust pipeline of new clients and retaining existing ones requires continuous effort in marketing, networking, and relationship building.

• Balancing Design & Sales: Effectively merging creative design expertise with persuasive sales techniques to close deals without compromising client satisfaction.

• Staying Current: Keeping pace with rapidly evolving design trends, product lines, and digital technologies requires ongoing learning.

• Market Competition: Differentiating Ethan Allen's offerings and services from competitors in the furniture and interior design market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Design Trend Workshops: Access to training on the latest interior design styles, color palettes, and materials.

• Sales Methodology Training: Development programs focused on consultative selling, negotiation, and closing techniques.

• Technology Proficiency: Training on new design software, CRM features, and visualization tools to enhance efficiency and client presentations.

• Product Knowledge Expansion: Deep dives into Ethan Allen's extensive product lines, materials, and customization options.

• Mentorship: Opportunities to learn from experienced Design Consultants and Leaders within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents a significant opportunity for individuals who thrive in a performance-driven environment and enjoy the challenge of combining creative design with direct sales. The company's commitment to training suggests a supportive framework for growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to understanding a client's design needs and translating them into a compelling design solution." (Focus on listening skills, needs assessment, and creative problem-solving.)

• "How do you utilize social media and grassroots marketing to build your client base and drive sales?" (Prepare specific examples of platforms used, content strategies, and results achieved.)

• "Walk me through a challenging sales situation you encountered and how you successfully navigated it to close the sale or retain the client." (Highlight resilience, negotiation skills, and client focus.)

• "How do you stay current with interior design trends and incorporate them into your client proposals?" (Discuss research methods, sources of inspiration, and how you balance trends with client preferences.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Ethan Allen's history, values, and commitment to quality craftsmanship?" (Show you've researched the company and understand its brand positioning.)

• "How would you contribute to the team culture and uphold Ethan Allen's brand representation?" (Align your personal values with the company's stated values.)

• "How do you handle feedback or constructive criticism from management or peers?" (Demonstrate coachability and a willingness to improve.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate the client's initial brief, your design solution, the challenges faced, and the final outcome (including sales success if applicable).

• Quantify Impact: Use numbers whenever possible – e.g., "Increased the client's order value by X% by recommending complementary accent pieces," or "Secured a Y% close ratio on in-home consultations."

• Showcase Technology Use: Explain how you used 3D modeling, CRM, or other tools to enhance the client experience and drive the sale.

• Highlight Sales Integration: Frame your design work as a means to achieve sales goals. For example, "My design focused on showcasing Ethan Allen's custom upholstery options, which led to a significant sale of custom-made sofas."

• Be Enthusiastic and Confident: Convey your passion for design and your confidence in your ability to drive sales for Ethan Allen.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of both design principles and sales methodologies. Candidates should be ready to quantify their achievements and articulate their business development strategies, especially in relation to using digital tools and social media.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

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

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio that clearly showcases your interior design projects, emphasizing space planning, aesthetic sensibilities, and client-focused solutions. Include examples that demonstrate your sales aptitude and ability to drive revenue.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant interior design experience, sales achievements, customer service skills, and proficiency with design and CRM software. Use keywords from the job description like "interior design," "sales," "client consultation," "space planning," and "CRM."

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your design process, sales strategies, and how you leverage technology. Practice presenting your portfolio and articulate how you would contribute to Ethan Allen's success.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Ethan Allen's brand, history, product lines, and design philosophy. Understand their position in the market and their commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate genuine interest.

⚠️ 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.