Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant – In-home Sales Pro

Company: SPF Screens & Awnings (A Hunter Douglas Family Brand)

Location: Ft. Lauderdale, FL

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Sales Operations / GTM (Go-To-Market) - Field Sales

Date Posted: June 25, 2026

Experience Level: 2-5+ Years

Remote Status: Hybrid (primarily in-field, with potential for remote administrative tasks)

🚀 Role Summary

• This is a high-impact, field-based sales role focused on consultative selling of premium outdoor living solutions, including retractable awnings and motorized sunscreens.

• The Design Consultant will be responsible for running pre-set, qualified appointments, driving sales through a consultative approach, and achieving ambitious revenue targets within an assigned territory.

• Success in this role hinges on strong closing skills, effective pipeline management, and the ability to build rapport and trust with homeowners.

• The position offers a significant opportunity for uncapped commission earnings, supported by robust marketing, production, and installation infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is primarily sales-focused, its success is intrinsically linked to operational efficiency. The "Design Consultant" title, combined with responsibilities like pipeline management and territory ownership, positions this role within the broader GTM and Sales Operations ecosystem. The emphasis on a "one-call close" and consultative selling requires a deep understanding of the sales process and customer journey, mirroring operational best practices.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct 2-4 qualified, pre-set in-home sales appointments daily.

• Deliver professional, value-driven, consultative presentations to prospective clients.

• Confidently ask for the sale and strive for one-call closes whenever feasible.

• Own the sales pipeline from the initial appointment through the installation phase, ensuring strategic follow-up on issued quotes to maximize close rates.

• Drive decisive buying outcomes by effectively communicating the value proposition of premium outdoor living solutions.

• Generate additional revenue through referrals, repeat business, and fostering local partnerships.

• Maintain expert-level CRM pipeline management and adhere to communication standards.

• Provide support to nearby territories when necessary, demonstrating a team-oriented approach to success.

• Collaborate with marketing, production, and installation teams to ensure a seamless customer experience.

• Stay informed about product offerings, design trends, and competitive landscape.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core responsibilities emphasize direct customer engagement and revenue generation, typical of a field sales role. However, the explicit mention of "CRM pipeline management and communication standards" and "strategic follow-up" highlights the operational rigor expected, aligning with sales operations best practices for lead conversion and sales cycle optimization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a strong understanding of sales methodologies and customer psychology is essential. Relevant coursework in business, marketing, or design could be beneficial. Experience:

• 2-5+ years of proven experience in high-ticket, consultative sales.

• In-home sales experience is highly preferred and will place candidates at the front of the line.

• Demonstrated history of consistently overachieving revenue goals, preferably in a commission-based environment. Required Skills:

• Consultative Sales Expertise: Ability to understand customer needs and present solutions that align with their lifestyle and budget.

• Closing Proficiency: Strong skills in asking for the sale and overcoming objections effectively without relying on heavy discounts.

• Pipeline Management: Effective management of leads, opportunities, and follow-up activities within the sales cycle.

• CRM Proficiency: Experience using Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems for tracking interactions, managing pipelines, and reporting.

• Objection Handling: Skillful navigation of customer concerns and hesitations to drive positive outcomes.

• High-Ticket Sales Acumen: Experience selling premium products or services with a higher price point.

• Presentation Skills: Ability to deliver polished, confident, and persuasive presentations in a client's home.

• Territory Management: Capacity to manage a geographic sales territory effectively, including scheduling and travel.

• Strategic Follow-up: Disciplined approach to nurturing leads and closing deals through persistent and strategic communication.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the home improvement, construction, or exterior living space industry.

• Proven ability to build and leverage referral networks and repeat business.

• Proficiency with specific CRM software used for sales tracking and customer management.

• Strong understanding of design principles and aesthetics relevant to outdoor living spaces.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirements and essential skills are heavily weighted towards direct sales performance. However, the emphasis on CRM proficiency and pipeline management suggests a need for candidates who understand the importance of data integrity and process adherence, which are foundational to sales operations. The preference for in-home sales experience underscores the field-based nature of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal "operations portfolio" is not explicitly required, candidates are expected to demonstrate their sales process and results through their resume and interview performance.

• Case Studies: Be prepared to discuss specific examples of successful sales engagements, highlighting how you identified customer needs, presented solutions, overcame objections, and closed deals.

• Metrics & Performance: Quantify achievements by providing specific figures related to close rates, revenue generated, and sales cycle length.

• System Usage: Be ready to discuss your experience with CRM systems and how you leverage them to manage your pipeline and drive sales.

Process Documentation:

• Understanding and adherence to the company's established sales process is critical. This includes:
  • Consultative Presentation Framework: Following the company's guidelines for delivering value-based presentations.
  • One-Call Close Methodology: Demonstrating capability in closing deals during the initial appointment.
  • Pipeline Management Workflow: Maintaining accurate and up-to-date CRM records and actively managing follow-up activities.
  • Referral & Repeat Business Generation: Implementing strategies to generate ongoing business.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is adapted for a sales role. Instead of traditional operations process documentation, the focus is on demonstrating a candidate's personal sales process, results, and proficiency with sales tools like CRM. The "portfolio" aspect translates to showcasing past successes and understanding of sales methodologies.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Base Salary: Salaried training (2 weeks) + Salary + Commission during ramp-up period (10 weeks).

• Uncapped Commission Structure:

  • Top performers: $150,000 - $250,000+ annually.

  • Average annual income for consultants not yet maximizing territory: $80,000 - $90,000. Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance

• Life Insurance

• Short-term Disability Insurance

• Accident Insurance

• 401(k) with a 6% company match

• $500 monthly car allowance

• Toll reimbursement

• Sales iPad, product samples, and professional measuring equipment provided Working Hours:

• Full-time, 5 days per week.

• Must be available to conduct evening and weekend sales appointments to accommodate client schedules.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary structure is a hybrid model, combining a base salary during training and ramp-up with an uncapped commission structure. This is typical for high-performing sales roles where individual contribution directly impacts earnings. The estimated salary range is based on the provided figures for top performers and average earners, adjusted for the Ft. Lauderdale, FL location, considering its cost of living and typical sales compensation benchmarks. The benefits package is comprehensive, aligning with industry standards for full-time employees in sales roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Window Coverings Manufacturing & Home Improvement Retail. SPF Screens & Awnings operates within the premium home improvement sector, specializing in custom outdoor living solutions. As part of Hunter Douglas, a globally recognized leader, the company benefits from a strong brand reputation and established market presence.

Company Size: Part of the larger Hunter Douglas network, SPF Screens & Awnings is a significant player in its regional markets (Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, Texas, Arizona, expanding to Southern California). This suggests a dynamic, growth-oriented environment with substantial operational capacity.

Founded: SPF Screens & Awnings has been transforming outdoor spaces for over 15 years. Hunter Douglas itself has over 100 years of innovation. This blend of established expertise and dynamic growth creates a stable yet forward-thinking company culture.

Team Structure:

• Sales Team: The Design Consultant will be part of a larger sales team, working within a defined territory. Collaboration is encouraged, especially in supporting neighboring territories.

• Reporting: Likely reports to a Sales Manager or Regional Sales Director, who oversees performance metrics and provides guidance.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Works closely with marketing (for appointment generation), production (for product specifications), and installation teams (for project completion), requiring strong communication and coordination skills.

Methodology:

• Solution-Based Selling: Focuses on providing tailored solutions to meet customer needs rather than just selling a product.

• Data-Driven Marketing: Utilizes aggressive marketing to generate pre-set, qualified appointments, indicating a reliance on data to drive lead generation efforts.

• Performance-Driven Culture: Emphasizes clear metrics, results, and rewarding high performance.

Company Website: https://www.hunterdouglas.com/ (for Hunter Douglas) and likely a specific SPF Screens & Awnings site.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights a stable, reputable brand (Hunter Douglas) combined with a fast-growing, specialized division (SPF Screens & Awnings). This suggests a culture that values both established processes and entrepreneurial drive, appealing to sales professionals who seek growth and recognition.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-level to senior-level individual contributor position within the sales function. It's described as a "closer's seat," indicating it's not an entry-level or training position, but rather for proven sales professionals. The emphasis on territory ownership and potential for high earnings suggests a significant level of autonomy and responsibility.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Sales Manager or Director who oversees regional sales performance. The role involves direct interaction with customers and indirectly with support teams (marketing, production, installation).

Operations Impact: As a direct revenue-generating role, the Design Consultant has a significant and immediate impact on the company's financial performance. Their ability to close deals and maximize territory potential directly drives top-line revenue and contributes to market share growth.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Leadership: Potential to move into Sales Management, Regional Management, or specialized sales roles within SPF Screens & Awnings or Hunter Douglas.

• Territory Expansion: Opportunity to develop and own larger or more lucrative territories as performance is proven.

• Skill Development: Continuous learning through product training, sales technique workshops, and exposure to high-value sales processes.

• Mentorship: Potential to mentor new sales consultants as a top performer.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a successful Design Consultant is clearly defined towards sales leadership and mastery within a specific territory. The emphasis on performance and results aligns with typical growth trajectories in commission-based sales environments.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Primarily a field-based role. While there may not be a traditional office space for daily work, consultants will interact with support staff and management, potentially at regional hubs or for team meetings. The "hybrid" designation likely refers to the mix of in-home sales and potential administrative/remote work.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Ft. Lauderdale, FL, requiring travel within the assigned territory. Specific territory details would be provided upon engagement.

Workspace Context:

• Field-Centric: The primary workspace is the customer's home, requiring professionalism, adaptability, and strong interpersonal skills.

• Technology Enabled: Sales iPad, product samples, and measuring equipment are provided, facilitating effective in-home presentations and on-site assessments.

• Team Interaction: While largely independent, opportunities for team collaboration exist through training sessions, sales meetings, and supporting colleagues.

Work Schedule:

• Full-time, 5 days per week.

• Requires flexibility to conduct evening and weekend sales appointments to align with customer availability. This is typical for in-home sales roles and requires strong time management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is dynamic and customer-facing, demanding self-discipline and excellent time management. The provision of tools and technology supports efficient field operations.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A phone or video call to assess basic qualifications, sales experience, and cultural fit.

• In-depth Interview: Likely with a Sales Manager or Director, focusing on sales methodology, past performance, and consultative selling approach. Expect behavioral questions and scenario-based inquiries.

• Presentation/Role-Play: Candidates may be asked to deliver a mock sales presentation or role-play a sales scenario to demonstrate their skills.

• Field Ride-Along (Potentially): In some cases, a top-performing candidate might accompany an experienced consultant on appointments.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership or HR to discuss compensation, benefits, and finalize the offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Resume Optimization: Clearly highlight quantifiable achievements in sales, such as revenue generated, close rates, and growth in territory sales. Use keywords like "consultative sales," "high-ticket sales," "pipeline management," and "closing."

• Quantify Success: Be prepared to discuss specific numbers and metrics from past roles. Instead of saying "increased sales," state "increased monthly sales by 20% resulting in $X additional revenue."

• Case Study Preparation: Have 2-3 detailed examples of challenging sales situations you successfully navigated. Focus on the problem, your approach (consultative process, objection handling), the solution, and the positive outcome (deal closed, client satisfaction).

• CRM Experience: Articulate how you use CRM to manage your workflow, track progress, and ensure follow-up.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Methodology: Be ready to articulate your personal sales philosophy and how you approach a consultative sale from initial contact to closing.

• Objection Handling: Prepare responses to common sales objections related to price, need, timing, or competition.

• Value Proposition: Practice articulating the unique value of premium products and how to sell based on benefits and ROI rather than just features.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess not just sales skills but also the candidate's ability to operate independently and effectively within a defined sales process. The emphasis is on performance, results, and a consultative approach.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Essential for pipeline management, contact tracking, activity logging, and reporting. Expect the company to use a robust CRM (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system). Candidates should be proficient in using CRM for sales operations.

• Sales iPad: Provided for presentations, product information, and potentially order entry. Familiarity with tablet-based sales tools is beneficial.

• Measuring Equipment: Professional tools for accurate on-site measurements.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While the Design Consultant is not an analyst, they will be expected to understand and use sales reports generated from the CRM to track their performance against goals. CRM & Automation:

• The primary interaction with automation would be through the CRM's built-in functionalities for task reminders and follow-up sequences.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with CRM is paramount for this role, as it serves as the central hub for managing sales activities and reporting. The company provides the necessary tools to execute the sales process effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence & Performance: A strong emphasis on achieving and exceeding sales targets. High performers are recognized and rewarded.

• Customer-Centricity: Focus on understanding and meeting customer needs to deliver premium outdoor living solutions.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Maintaining high standards in customer interactions and sales practices.

• Teamwork & Support: Willingness to support colleagues and contribute to the overall success of the sales team and company.

• Ownership & Accountability: Taking responsibility for territory, pipeline, and results.

Collaboration Style:

• Independent Field Work: Consultants operate largely independently in the field but are part of a supportive sales team.

• Supportive Environment: The company provides marketing, production, and installation support, indicating a collaborative ecosystem designed to enable sales success.

• Performance-Oriented Communication: Interactions with management and colleagues will likely focus on performance, strategy, and best practices for driving sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture appears to be a blend of high-performance expectations for individuals and a supportive infrastructure designed to facilitate their success. Values likely center around results, customer satisfaction, and professional conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-Ticket Sales Objections: Overcoming customer price sensitivity and demonstrating the long-term value of premium products.

• Performance Pressure: The uncapped commission structure implies a need to consistently perform at a high level to achieve desired income.

• Territory Management: Effectively balancing travel, appointments, and follow-up within an assigned geographic area.

• Adaptability: Adjusting sales approach based on individual customer needs and market dynamics.

• Weekend/Evening Availability: Managing personal time effectively while meeting the demands of evening and weekend appointments.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Sales Techniques: Training on consultative selling, negotiation, and closing strategies specific to high-value home improvement products.

• Product Expertise: Deepening knowledge of retractable awnings, motorized sunscreens, and related outdoor living solutions.

• CRM & Sales Technology: Becoming proficient in leveraging sales technology for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.

• Territory Development: Learning strategies for maximizing sales revenue and building a strong client base within a specific territory.

• Potential for Leadership: Opportunities to grow into sales management or specialized roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents significant income potential but requires resilience, strong sales acumen, and the ability to thrive in a performance-driven environment with inherent challenges. The growth opportunities are substantial for those who excel.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to a consultative, in-home sales appointment. How do you uncover needs and build value?"

• "Walk me through your process for managing a sales pipeline from lead to close, specifically using a CRM."

• "How do you handle objections related to price on high-ticket items? Provide a specific example."

• "What is your strategy for achieving a one-call close, and when do you deem it appropriate?"

• "How do you generate referrals and repeat business within your territory?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in selling premium outdoor living solutions with SPF Screens & Awnings?"

• "What do you know about Hunter Douglas and SPF Screens & Awnings?"

• "Describe your experience in a commission-based or performance-driven sales environment. How do you stay motivated?"

• "How do you handle constructive criticism or feedback on your sales performance?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Resume Walkthrough: Be prepared to elaborate on your resume, highlighting key achievements and responsibilities with specific examples and quantifiable results.

• Sales Process Articulation: Clearly explain your personal sales process, from lead qualification to closing and post-sale follow-up.

• Case Study Presentation: Select 1-2 strong examples of successful sales engagements. Structure your narrative around the customer's problem, your solution, your consultative approach, and the achieved outcome. Use data to support your claims.

• Demonstrate CRM Use: Be ready to discuss how you use CRM tools to manage your workflow, track progress, and ensure timely follow-up.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a proven track record of sales success, a sophisticated understanding of consultative selling, and a strong work ethic. Quantifiable results and specific examples are crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Hunter Douglas careers portal.

• Resume Customization: Tailor your resume to emphasize your experience in high-ticket, consultative, and in-home sales. Quantify your achievements with specific metrics (e.g., average deal size, close rate, annual revenue generated).

• Prepare Sales Examples: Develop 2-3 detailed case studies showcasing your ability to consultatively sell, overcome objections, and close deals. Focus on the value you brought to the customer and the results you achieved.

• Practice Your Pitch: Rehearse your ability to articulate the value proposition of premium products and your personal sales process. Be ready to discuss your experience with CRM and pipeline management.

• Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with SPF Screens & Awnings and Hunter Douglas's product offerings, market position, and company culture. Understand their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

⚠️ 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.