Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant

Company: Gabriella White

Location: Winter Park, FL, US

Job Type: Full Time

Category: Retail Sales & Design Operations

Date Posted: June 07, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5 Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive sales of luxury furniture and accessories within a high-end retail showroom environment.

• Provide expert interior design consultation and personalized client service, including home visits.

• Foster strong client relationships through engaging communication and a deep understanding of design principles.

• Maintain showroom presentation standards and contribute to overall team success.

• Leverage design knowledge and sales acumen to create aesthetically pleasing and functional client spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Design Consultant" title, combined with the mention of luxury furniture brands (Gabby and Summer Classics), high-end retail, and personalized client service including home visits, strongly indicates a role focused on consultative sales within a design-centric environment. This role requires a blend of sales expertise, design sensibility, and customer relationship management, aligning with operations roles that support client acquisition and retention through specialized product knowledge and service delivery. The emphasis on achieving sales goals and client satisfaction positions this as a key revenue-generating and customer experience role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage with clients to understand their design needs, preferences, and project scope, offering tailored solutions.

• Conduct in-home design consultations to assess client spaces, provide expert recommendations, and close sales opportunities.

• Develop and present design proposals, floor plans, and product selections, utilizing design software and product knowledge.

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

• Collaborate with internal teams (e.g., logistics, customer service) to ensure seamless order fulfillment and client satisfaction.

• Stay current with product lines, design trends, and competitor offerings to provide informed advice and drive sales.

• Maintain a visually appealing and organized showroom space, ensuring products are well-presented and samples are up-to-date.

• Accurately manage client information, sales activities, and order details within the Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core responsibilities are sales and design-focused, the inclusion of "Accurate and consistent management of client information and sales activity within the CRM system" and "Contribution to showroom standards and teamwork that supports overall store performance" highlights operational aspects. These responsibilities require structured data management and adherence to operational procedures, which are critical for effective sales operations and client lifecycle management.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A background in design, business, marketing, or a related field is preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of one year of experience in interior design or high-end retail sales. Required Skills:

• Proven ability to sell luxury products and achieve sales targets.

• Strong understanding of fabrics, finishes, and interior design principles.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective client engagement.

• Proficiency in space planning and the ability to visualize and articulate design concepts.

• Demonstrated experience in building and nurturing client relationships.

• Familiarity with CRM systems for managing sales activities and client data.

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

• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends and special events. Preferred Skills:

• Experience with space planning software such as RoomSketcher or similar tools.

• Background in business, marketing, or a related field.

• Demonstrated success in consultative selling within a luxury market.

• A natural talent for creative problem-solving and a positive, professional demeanor.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for CRM proficiency and familiarity with space planning software like RoomSketcher are key technical skills for this role, directly impacting sales operations efficiency and client experience quality. The emphasis on "selling luxury products feels natural to you, and you are good at it" and "You bring confidence, style, and genuine passion for beautiful spaces" highlights a blend of sales effectiveness and brand representation crucial for high-end retail operations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase examples of design projects, demonstrating an understanding of client needs and aesthetic principles.

• Include case studies of successful client consultations and sales, highlighting your approach to understanding client vision.

• Present examples of how you have utilized design tools or software (e.g., space planning, mood boards) to bring concepts to life.

• Demonstrate proficiency in managing client data and sales interactions, potentially through examples of CRM utilization or sales process documentation. Process Documentation:

• Ability to articulate your personal sales process from initial client contact through to closing and follow-up.

• Documentation of how you approach client consultations, including needs assessment, proposal development, and presentation.

• Examples of how you manage client information and maintain organized records for ongoing client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" in the traditional sense might not be as extensive as for a pure designer, the emphasis on "How Success is Measured" points to the need for candidates to demonstrate their ability to manage client data within a CRM and execute a structured sales process. The "Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements" section is tailored to reflect how a sales consultant would showcase their ability to manage client interactions and sales workflows.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Hourly rate plus commission and sales bonus opportunities.

• Estimated annual total compensation range: $60,000 - $100,000+ (This includes a base hourly wage plus commission and potential bonuses, with the higher end achievable through strong sales performance). Benefits:

• Competitive health, dental, and vision plans.

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

• Paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays.

• Paid parental leave.

• Employee Assistance Program and Chaplain Services for well-being support.

• Generous employee product purchase discount. Working Hours:

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

• Requires regular weekend availability and flexibility for special events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure is explicitly stated as hourly plus commission and sales bonuses, which is common in retail sales roles. The estimated annual range is based on typical earnings for design consultants in high-end retail in a market like Winter Park, FL, considering base pay, commission potential, and bonus opportunities. The inclusion of "sales bonus opportunities" reinforces the performance-driven nature of the compensation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Home Furnishings & Retail

Company Size: 50-200 Employees

Founded: 1987

Team Structure:

• The Design Consultant will be part of a showroom sales team, reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Director.

• This role involves close collaboration with fellow design consultants, client support staff, and potentially logistics/operations teams to ensure client satisfaction.

• The company culture emphasizes family ownership, design innovation, and a collaborative spirit, guided by core values of Dedication, Enthusiasm, Synergy, Integrity, Goal-Oriented, and Nimble (DESIGN). Methodology:

• Client-centric approach to sales and design, focusing on personalized service and relationship building.

• Data-driven decision-making for sales performance tracking and client engagement strategies, utilizing CRM systems.

• Emphasis on continuous learning and development in design trends and product knowledge.

• Collaborative problem-solving to address client needs and operational challenges.

Company Website: https://gabriellawhite.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description highlights its family-owned nature since 1987, specializing in luxury outdoor and transitional furniture through its brands Gabby and Summer Classics. This context is crucial for understanding the brand's positioning and the type of client interactions expected. The explicitly stated core values (DESIGN) provide insight into the desired employee mindset and operational approach.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Sales & Design Specialist

Reporting Structure: Reports to Showroom Management, with potential for advancement into senior sales roles, showroom management, or specialized design consulting positions.

Operations Impact: Directly influences revenue generation through sales performance and customer acquisition/retention. Contributes to brand reputation and client loyalty through exceptional service and design expertise. Operational efficiency is supported by accurate CRM data management and adherence to sales processes.

Growth Opportunities:

• Develop advanced sales and negotiation skills through ongoing training and performance feedback.

• Expand design expertise through exposure to diverse client projects and brand offerings.

• Potential to move into leadership roles such as Senior Design Consultant or Showroom Manager.

• Opportunity to specialize in specific product lines or client segments.

• Continuous learning through industry events, product training, and internal development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for growth within a specialized retail operations framework. The progression from a Design Consultant to Showroom Management or senior sales positions indicates a structured career trajectory, emphasizing the operational importance of sales performance and client management skills.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Luxury Furniture Showroom

Office Location(s): Winter Park, FL

Workspace Context:

• A beautiful, inspiring showroom environment filled with high-end furniture and accessories.

• Highly collaborative atmosphere with fellow sales consultants and showroom staff.

• Access to technology including iPads and CRM systems to support client interactions and sales processes.

• Opportunities for client interaction both within the showroom and through in-home visits. Work Schedule:

• Full-time, typically 40 hours per week.

• Must be available to work weekends regularly, as this is a critical selling period for retail showrooms.

• Flexibility for occasional special events may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of a "beautiful showroom" and the need for weekend availability are standard for retail environments, but the mention of "in-home visits" adds a dynamic element to the work environment, requiring adaptability and strong client management skills outside the immediate showroom space.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess qualifications and experience.

• Showroom Interview: Meet with the hiring manager (e.g., Showroom Manager) to discuss your design philosophy, sales approach, and experience with luxury retail. You may be asked to walk through the showroom and discuss products.

• Design/Sales Challenge: Potentially a scenario-based exercise or a presentation where you are asked to design a space or pitch a product based on a client brief.

• Home Visit Simulation (Optional): A role-playing exercise simulating an in-home consultation.

• Final Interview: May involve meeting with additional management to finalize hiring decisions.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prepare a concise portfolio showcasing 3-5 relevant design projects. Focus on projects that demonstrate your ability to understand client needs, translate them into design solutions, and achieve successful outcomes (e.g., client satisfaction, sales closure).

• Include examples of your work with luxury products or in high-end retail settings if possible.

• Highlight your process: how you engage clients, assess spaces, select products, and present solutions.

• If you have experience with CRM or space planning software, be prepared to discuss your proficiency and how you've used these tools to enhance client experience or sales efficiency.

• Be ready to articulate your sales approach and how you build rapport and trust with clients. Challenge Preparation:

• Research the Gabby and Summer Classics brands thoroughly. Understand their style, target audience, and unique selling propositions.

• Practice articulating your design process and sales methodology clearly and concisely.

• Prepare to discuss your experience with luxury sales and how you handle objections or challenging client requests.

• Be ready to discuss how you measure your own success and contribute to team goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing both sales acumen and design sensibility. For operations professionals, understanding how sales performance is tracked (CRM) and how client interactions are managed is key. The portfolio should reflect these aspects alongside design skills.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Experience with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system) for client management, sales tracking, and pipeline management is essential.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Proficiency in Word, Excel, and Outlook for communication, reporting, and basic data analysis.

• iPad/Tablet: Likely used for client presentations, accessing product catalogs, and potentially space planning software.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Ability to interpret sales reports and performance metrics provided by management.

• Understanding of how individual sales performance contributes to overall showroom targets. CRM & Automation:

• Space Planning Software: Familiarity with tools like RoomSketcher, AutoCAD, SketchUp, or similar software for creating floor plans and visualizing designs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM systems is critical for sales operations. The mention of RoomSketcher specifically points to a need for visual design and space planning capabilities directly integrated into the sales workflow.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Design: A core value influencing all aspects of the role, from product selection to client presentation.

• Enthusiasm: Bringing passion and positive energy to client interactions and team collaboration.

• Synergy: Working effectively with colleagues and other departments to achieve shared goals and provide seamless client experiences.

• Integrity: Maintaining honesty, transparency, and ethical conduct in all client dealings and business practices.

• Goal-Oriented: A strong drive to achieve individual sales targets and contribute to the showroom's overall success.

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

Collaboration Style:

• Highly collaborative within the showroom team, sharing best practices and supporting colleagues.

• Cross-functional collaboration with support staff to ensure order accuracy and timely delivery.

• Client-focused approach, prioritizing client needs and satisfaction in all interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values (DESIGN) directly translate into expected behaviors and operational approaches, emphasizing a blend of creativity, drive, and teamwork. Understanding these values is key to cultural fit.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Meeting and exceeding ambitious sales targets in a competitive luxury market.

• Balancing multiple client consultations and in-home visits while maintaining high service quality.

• Staying updated on extensive product lines and design trends to provide expert advice.

• Effectively managing client expectations and resolving any issues that may arise during the design or sales process.

• Adapting to seasonal fluctuations in the retail market and showroom traffic. Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Continuous product training on new collections and design applications.

• Sales training focused on consultative selling, negotiation, and client relationship management.

• Opportunities to expand design skills through project experience and potentially industry workshops.

• Exposure to different aspects of the luxury retail business, from design to operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges highlight the need for strong operational discipline in sales, time management, and client issue resolution, which are core to effective sales operations.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to understanding a client's design style and translating that into furniture selections." (Focus on needs assessment, active listening, and product knowledge).

• "Walk me through a time you successfully closed a high-value sale or managed a challenging client situation." (Prepare a STAR method response showcasing sales skills, problem-solving, and client satisfaction).

• "How do you stay organized and manage your time when juggling multiple client appointments and tasks?" (Highlight CRM usage, prioritization, and efficiency).

• "What do you know about Gabriella White, Gabby, and Summer Classics, and why are you interested in this role?" (Research the brands, their market position, and align your passion with their offerings). Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you embody our core values of DESIGN in your work?" (Be prepared to give specific examples related to Dedication, Enthusiasm, Synergy, Integrity, Goal-Orientation, and Nimbleness).

• "How would you contribute to the collaborative atmosphere of our showroom team?" (Focus on teamwork, knowledge sharing, and mutual support).

• "What does exceptional client service mean to you in a luxury retail setting?" (Emphasize personalized attention, exceeding expectations, and building long-term relationships). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select 3-5 impactful projects that showcase your design eye and sales success. For each, clearly articulate:

  • The client's initial needs and vision.
  • Your design process and key decisions.
  • The products selected and why.
  • The outcome of the project (e.g., client satisfaction, successful sale, space transformation).

• Be prepared to discuss your experience with any design or CRM software used.

• Clearly demonstrate your understanding of how your role contributes to the company's operational and revenue goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of strong sales execution, design expertise, and an understanding of operational efficiency through tools like CRM.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the ADP WorkNow portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in interior design, luxury retail sales, client relationship management, and CRM proficiency. Quantify achievements with sales figures or client satisfaction metrics where possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a digital or physical portfolio that showcases your design projects, sales successes, and understanding of luxury client service. Be ready to discuss your process for client consultations and sales.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Gabriella White, Gabby, and Summer Classics. Understand their brand ethos, product lines, and target market to articulate your interest and fit during the interview process.

• Interview Practice: Practice articulating your sales approach, design philosophy, and how you embody the company's core values. Be ready to discuss specific examples of your achievements and how you handle client interactions.

⚠️ 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.

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