Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Gabriella White

Location: Winter Park, FL, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Sales & Customer Service Operations

Date Posted: 2026-08-17

Experience Level: Mid-Level (1-3 years implied)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue and client satisfaction through expert consultative sales and interior design services.

• Cultivate and maintain strong client relationships, both in-showroom and through in-home consultations.

• Leverage a deep understanding of luxury furniture, fabrics, and finishes to create personalized, aspirational living spaces.

• Accurately manage sales pipeline, client data, and activity within a CRM system to ensure operational efficiency.

• Contribute to a high-performing, collaborative showroom environment that embodies the Gabriella White brand values.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and metrics point strongly towards a sales-focused role with a significant design component. The emphasis on "hourly plus commission" and "sales goals" positions this as a revenue-generating position within a retail showroom environment, requiring strong GTM (Go-To-Market) and customer engagement skills. The role operates within the broader context of retail operations and customer experience management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage clients in a luxury retail showroom setting, understanding their design needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences to recommend appropriate furniture and accessories.

• Conduct in-home design consultations to assess client spaces, provide personalized design solutions, and close sales.

• Develop and present comprehensive design proposals, utilizing product knowledge, fabric samples, and space-planning tools to visualize client projects.

• Build and nurture a robust client pipeline through exceptional service, follow-up, and relationship management.

• Accurately document all client interactions, sales activities, and project details in the designated CRM system to maintain data integrity and support sales reporting.

• Collaborate with showroom management and team members to achieve collective sales targets and maintain a visually appealing and functional showroom environment.

• Stay abreast of current design trends, product lines, and brand stories for Gabby and Summer Classics to effectively educate and inspire clients.

• Process sales orders, manage client communications regarding order status, and coordinate with delivery teams to ensure a seamless customer experience from sale to fulfillment.

• Participate in ongoing product training and professional development to enhance design expertise and sales acumen.

• Contribute to special events and marketing initiatives designed to drive showroom traffic and brand awareness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description implies a dual role of direct sales and design consultation, with a strong emphasis on relationship building. The responsibilities are framed to highlight the consultative sales approach and the importance of client experience within a luxury retail context.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A background in design, business, marketing, or a related field is a significant advantage.

• Formal education in interior design or a related discipline is highly preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of one year of experience in interior design or high-end retail sales is required.

• Proven track record of success in consultative sales environments. Required Skills:

• Demonstrated ability to understand and translate client design visions into tangible interior solutions.

• Strong knowledge of luxury furniture, fabrics, finishes, and current interior design trends.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to connect with a diverse clientele and build lasting relationships.

• Proficiency in sales techniques, including needs assessment, solution presentation, objection handling, and closing.

• Experience with space planning and visualizing interior layouts.

• Competency in using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

• Familiarity with using an iPad for client interactions and presentations.

• Ability to learn and effectively utilize new software and systems, including CRM and design tools.

• Strong problem-solving skills, with a positive and professional attitude.

• Flexibility to work weekends regularly and for special events as needed. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific design software such as RoomSketcher or similar space planning applications.

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

• Experience selling luxury goods or high-ticket items.

• A portfolio showcasing design projects or relevant retail sales achievements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement is specified as "at least a year," suggesting that candidates with 1-3 years of relevant experience would be well-suited. The "high-end retail" aspect is crucial, indicating a need for candidates accustomed to premium customer service and product knowledge.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of interior design projects, demonstrating an understanding of space planning, color palettes, and furniture selection.

• Include case studies or examples of successful client consultations that highlight problem-solving and client relationship building.

• Present examples of how design knowledge was applied to achieve specific client objectives or overcome design challenges.

• If applicable, include examples of sales performance metrics or testimonials that reflect strong customer satisfaction and sales achievements in a retail or design context. Process Documentation:

• Candidates are expected to demonstrate an understanding of consultative sales processes, from initial client engagement to closing and after-sales support.

• Familiarity with workflow management for client appointments, in-home visits, and order processing.

• Ability to articulate how CRM systems are used to manage the sales cycle, track client interactions, and support follow-up activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the sales and design nature of the role, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of design skills and sales success is highly relevant. The emphasis is on tangible outcomes and client-centric processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Hourly rate: $18 - $25 per hour (estimated based on similar roles in Winter Park, FL, considering experience level and the luxury retail sector).

• Commission: Performance-based commission on sales, with additional sales bonus opportunities.

• Estimated Total Compensation (Hourly + Commission): $55,000 - $85,000+ annually, highly dependent on sales performance and commission structure.

Benefits:

• Competitive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• 401(k) plan with employer match after 12 months of employment.

• Paid time off, including sick leave, vacation days, and holidays.

• Paid parental leave.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental and emotional well-being support.

• Chaplain services available for additional support.

• Generous employee product purchase discount on Gabriella White's luxury furniture and accessories. Working Hours:

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

• Requires flexibility to work weekends regularly, as well as special events as needed, to accommodate client schedules and showroom operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on typical retail sales consultant roles in the Winter Park, FL area, factoring in the luxury segment and commission potential. The provided hourly range is a baseline, with significant earning potential through commission and bonuses. Research indicates that luxury retail sales roles in affluent areas like Winter Park often command higher base rates and commission structures to attract experienced talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Home Furnishings, Retail, Interior Design. Gabriella White operates within a high-end market segment, focusing on premium quality and sophisticated aesthetics for both indoor and outdoor living spaces.

Company Size: The job posting does not specify the exact company size, but the mention of "family-owned and operated since 1987" and multiple brands (Gabby, Summer Classics) suggests a mid-sized to large company with established operations and a growing presence.

Founded: 1987. This indicates a long-standing presence and stability in the furniture and design industry, with decades of experience in manufacturing and retail.

Team Structure:

• The role is based in a specific showroom location in Winter Park, FL.

• The Design Consultant will likely report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.

• The team consists of other Design Consultants and potentially showroom support staff.

• Collaboration is expected within the showroom team and potentially with design professionals, manufacturers, and logistics. Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: Emphasis on building lasting relationships and providing personalized service.

• Design-Driven Excellence: Focus on aesthetics, quality, and creating aspirational living spaces.

• Sales Performance: Driven by individual and team sales goals, supported by commission and bonuses.

• Collaborative Spirit: The company values "Synergy" and teamwork, indicating a supportive work environment.

Company Website: https://www.gabriellawhite.com/ (This URL is inferred from the organization URL and common domain naming conventions. The provided ADP URL is for recruitment, not the main company site.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is deeply rooted in its core values (DESIGN: Dedication, Enthusiasm, Synergy, Integrity, Goal-Oriented, Nimble). This suggests a professional yet dynamic environment that values both individual drive and collective effort. The family-owned nature often implies a more personal and committed work environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level sales and design professional. It requires a blend of creative talent and commercial acumen, serving as a key client-facing position within the retail operations structure.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Showroom Manager, who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and team management. The role involves direct client interaction and sales execution.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant directly impacts revenue through sales transactions and indirectly influences brand perception through client interactions and the creation of beautiful, inspiring spaces. Their success contributes significantly to the profitability and customer loyalty of the showroom and Gabriella White as a whole.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Sales Specialist: Advancement to roles with increased responsibility, higher commission potential, or specialization in specific product lines (e.g., outdoor living).

• Showroom Management: Potential to move into leadership roles such as Assistant Showroom Manager or Showroom Manager, overseeing operations, sales teams, and P&L.

• Design Specialist/Account Management: Transition to roles focused on B2B sales, working with interior designers, architects, or commercial clients.

• Product Development/Merchandising: Opportunities to leverage design and market insights in product selection or development roles, depending on company structure.

• Training and Development: Continuous learning opportunities in design, sales techniques, and product knowledge, fostering professional growth within the luxury retail and design sectors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path from Design Consultant in a luxury retail setting often leads to management or specialized sales roles. The company's emphasis on "growing together" and being "design-driven" suggests a commitment to employee development within these areas.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site, within a luxury furniture showroom. This environment is designed to be visually appealing, inspiring, and conducive to client consultations and product showcasing.

Office Location(s): Winter Park, FL (specific address details not provided in the raw listing). Winter Park is an affluent area known for its upscale retail and design businesses.

Workspace Context:

• The primary workspace is a beautifully curated showroom filled with high-end furniture and accessories.

• Access to design resources, fabric samples, and potentially digital tools like iPads and space-planning software.

• A collaborative environment where interaction with colleagues, management, and clients is frequent.

• The role may also involve off-site work for in-home client consultations, requiring professional presentation and client engagement skills outside the showroom. Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• Requires regular weekend availability and flexibility for special events, which is common in retail environments, especially those catering to discerning clientele.

📝 Enhancement Note: The showroom environment is a key aspect of the role, serving as both a sales tool and an inspiration hub. Candidates should be comfortable working in a visually rich, customer-facing retail setting that demands professionalism and aesthetic sensibility.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Review of resume and potentially a brief introductory call to assess basic qualifications and interest.

• First Interview: Likely with the Showroom Manager or Hiring Manager. Focus on experience, sales aptitude, design understanding, and cultural fit. Expect behavioral questions and scenario-based questions related to sales and client interaction.

• Portfolio Review: Candidates will likely be asked to present a portfolio of their design work and/or sales achievements. This is a critical stage to assess visual creativity, technical skills, and ability to articulate design concepts and sales strategies.

• Second Interview/Final Round: May involve meeting with additional team members or senior management. Could include a design challenge or a role-playing exercise to simulate client interactions.

• Offer: Extension of an offer based on overall assessment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 of your strongest projects that best represent your design aesthetic, problem-solving skills, and ability to work with luxury products.

• Showcase Process: For each project, briefly outline the client's brief, your design approach, key decisions (materials, layout, furniture), and the final outcome. Highlight how you met client needs and achieved their vision.

• Quantify Results: If possible, include metrics related to sales performance, client satisfaction scores, or revenue generated from your design work.

• Tailor to Gabriella White: Emphasize projects that align with Gabriella White's brands (Gabby, Summer Classics) and aesthetic – timeless, sophisticated, luxury, indoor/outdoor.

• Prepare a Presentation: Be ready to walk through your portfolio, articulate your design philosophy, and explain your sales approach. Practice your presentation to ensure it is concise and impactful.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Challenge: You might be asked to create a mood board or a simple space plan for a hypothetical client within a time limit, using provided materials or software.

• Sales Scenario: Be prepared for role-playing exercises where you must handle common sales objections, upsell, or conduct a simulated client consultation.

• Brand Knowledge: Research Gabriella White, Gabby, and Summer Classics. Understand their brand identity, target market, and product offerings. Be ready to discuss why you are a good fit for their brand.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily weigh design sensibility and sales effectiveness. A well-prepared portfolio that demonstrates both is crucial for success. The company's values (DESIGN) should be woven into responses.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Essential for managing client data, sales pipeline, and tracking interactions. Specific CRM not named, but proficiency in any major CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho CRM) is transferable.

• iPad: Used for client presentations, accessing digital catalogs, space planning tools, and potentially CRM access.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard for business communication, document creation, and data management (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not a data analyst role, understanding basic sales reporting from the CRM will be important for tracking personal performance against goals. CRM & Automation:

• Design Software: Familiarity with tools like RoomSketcher, SketchUp, AutoCAD, or similar 2D/3D space planning and visualization software is a strong plus.

• Point of Sale (POS) Systems: Experience with retail POS systems for processing transactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role requires comfort with technology, particularly tools used for client engagement and sales management. While specific software names aren't always provided, demonstrating adaptability and proficiency with similar systems is key.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Dedication: Commitment to client satisfaction, sales goals, and the company's success.

• Enthusiasm: Passion for design, luxury products, and creating positive client experiences.

• Synergy: Collaborative approach to teamwork, supporting colleagues, and contributing to a cohesive showroom environment.

• Integrity: Honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all client and business interactions.

• Goal-Oriented: Driven to achieve individual and team sales targets and performance metrics.

• Nimble: Adaptability to changing trends, client needs, and business demands.

Collaboration Style:

• Expected to be a team player, supporting colleagues and contributing to a positive showroom atmosphere.

• Open communication and mutual respect are likely valued.

• Collaboration with management for sales strategy, client issue resolution, and showroom upkeep.

• Potential collaboration with other departments like logistics or marketing for specific client needs or events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's "DESIGN" values are central to their culture. Candidates should be able to articulate how their work ethic and approach align with these principles, particularly in how they interact with clients and contribute to the team.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting Sales Quotas: Consistently achieving individual sales targets in a competitive luxury market requires strong sales skills and client engagement.

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively blending creative design consultation with the demands of closing sales and managing client expectations.

• Client Management: Handling diverse client needs, budgets, and preferences, and managing expectations for custom orders or delivery timelines.

• Weekend Work: Adapting to a work schedule that includes regular weekends and occasional special events.

• Staying Current: Continuously learning about new product lines, design trends, and market shifts in the luxury furniture industry.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product Expertise: Deep dives into the Gabby and Summer Classics product lines, materials, and craftsmanship.

• Sales Training: Development of advanced consultative selling techniques, negotiation skills, and client relationship management strategies.

• Design Skills Enhancement: Opportunities to learn new design software, explore advanced interior design principles, and stay updated on industry trends.

• Showroom Operations: Exposure to retail management, visual merchandising, and inventory control.

• Career Advancement: Clear pathways to senior sales roles, management positions, or specialized design roles within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to grow both in sales performance and design expertise, making it attractive for individuals who are passionate about both aspects of the business.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Tell me about a time you successfully helped a client bring their design vision to life. What was your process?" (Focus on client needs assessment, design solution, and outcome.)

• "How do you approach building rapport and long-term relationships with clients in a luxury retail setting?" (Highlight communication, empathy, and follow-up strategies.)

• "Describe your experience with space planning and how you use it to present design solutions." (Demonstrate practical application of design tools and concepts.)

• "How do you handle objections from clients regarding price, style, or lead times?" (Showcase problem-solving and negotiation skills.)

• "What is your experience with CRM systems, and how do you use them to manage your sales pipeline?" (Emphasize data management and sales process adherence.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Gabriella White, Gabby, and Summer Classics, and why are you interested in working with our brands?" (Research their history, values, and product lines.)

• "How do you embody our core values of DESIGN (Dedication, Enthusiasm, Synergy, Integrity, Goal-Oriented, Nimble) in your work?" (Provide specific examples.)

• "Describe your ideal work environment and how you collaborate with a team." (Align with their emphasis on synergy and a positive showroom culture.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame each portfolio piece as a story – client challenge, your solution, and the successful outcome.

• Quantify Impact: If possible, highlight sales figures, client satisfaction metrics, or project scope.

• Visual Clarity: Ensure your presentation is clean, professional, and visually appealing, mirroring the luxury aesthetic of Gabriella White.

• Conciseness: Be prepared to present your portfolio efficiently, focusing on the most relevant and impactful examples.

• Enthusiasm: Convey genuine passion for design and for Gabriella White's products.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be assessing not just technical skills but also passion for design, sales acumen, and cultural fit with Gabriella White's values. Prepare to showcase how you can embody "DESIGN."

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP recruitment link: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=50ebad87-fc82-464e-91d1-fa1244aeb526&jobId=610353

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience in interior design, luxury retail sales, client relationship management, and any experience with CRM or design software. Quantify achievements with specific numbers (e.g., sales targets met, client satisfaction ratings).

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a digital portfolio that showcases your best design projects and/or successful sales achievements. Focus on quality over quantity, selecting pieces that align with Gabriella White's aesthetic and brand values.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Gabriella White, Gabby, and Summer Classics. Understand their brand identity, target market, product offerings, and core values (DESIGN). Prepare to discuss why you are a strong cultural fit.

• Interview Practice: Practice answering common interview questions related to sales, design, customer service, and problem-solving. Prepare to articulate your thought process and demonstrate your passion for creating beautiful spaces.

⚠️ 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.