Design Consultant, RH Channel (copy)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant, RH Channel

Company: Waterworks

Location: Newport Beach, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Sales Operations / Channel Management / Design Consulting

Date Posted: July 31, 2026

Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive sales revenue and strengthen brand presence within a high-end retail environment by acting as the primary Waterworks product and design expert.

• Cultivate and manage relationships with trade professionals, including architects, interior designers, and builders, to generate demand and secure project specifications.

• Support and train retail associates on Waterworks products, brand values, and selling techniques to enhance the overall client experience and team selling confidence.

• Manage project pipelines, marketing activities, and track key performance indicators to ensure alignment with sales goals and operational efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title suggests a design consulting role, the core responsibilities and requirements heavily emphasize sales, business development, and channel management within a retail partnership (RH Gallery). This role is deeply embedded within the sales operations and GTM strategy of Waterworks, focusing on driving revenue through a specific, high-value channel. The "copy" in the title may indicate it's a duplicate listing or a specialized iteration of a broader role.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• In-Gallery Expertise & Client Experience:

  • Serve as the go-to Waterworks product and design expert within the RH Gallery, providing in-depth consultations and elevating the luxury client experience.
  • Train and mentor RH associates on Waterworks product knowledge, features, benefits, and selling strategies to boost their confidence and effectiveness.
  • Uphold and maintain Waterworks' visual merchandising and brand presentation standards within the gallery space to ensure a cohesive and premium aesthetic.
  • Deliver an exceptional, brand-aligned client experience that reflects both Waterworks and RH brand values.

• Operations & Business Management:

  • Proactively manage and track project pipelines, registering new opportunities in accordance with established Client Management guidelines.
  • Plan and execute targeted marketing activities, ensuring accurate and timely documentation within the CRM system.
  • Conduct regular reviews of account performance, marketing strategies, and revenue goals to identify areas for optimization and growth.
  • Monitor and report on progress through detailed field reports, outreach activities, and pipeline updates.

• Sales & Partnership Development:

  • Collaborate closely with RH Gallery Leaders and associates to actively drive sales of Waterworks products through the gallery channel.
  • Cultivate and nurture strong relationships with key stakeholders to enhance Waterworks' preferred vendor status with RH and the broader trade network.
  • Consistently meet or exceed defined goals for lead generation, opportunity development, quote generation, and order fulfillment.

• Market Development & Trade Outreach:

  • Strategically establish and expand relationships with architects, interior designers, builders, and plumbers to drive demand and specification in the Southern California market.
  • Present the comprehensive Waterworks product portfolio effectively to specifiers and project stakeholders, highlighting design versatility and technical advantages.
  • Actively participate in industry events, continuing education units (CEUs), networking engagements, and site visits to broaden market presence and identify new opportunities.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration:

  • Partner with RH Channel leaders and internal Waterworks cross-functional teams to develop and refine sales tools and resources tailored for RH sales consultants.
  • Act as a primary liaison between corporate Waterworks teams and partner sales consultants, fostering clear communication and alignment on strategic initiatives.
  • Collaborate with the RH Channel Leader to recommend, define, and implement operational processes that uphold the Waterworks brand integrity and meet partner needs.
  • Embody and promote Waterworks' core values in all interactions and partnerships.

• Additional Responsibilities:

  • Contribute to strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening the Waterworks × RH partnership and enhancing overall gallery performance.

  • Demonstrate flexibility in scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and travel as business needs dictate.

  • Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned to support team and company objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities outline a hybrid role that blends direct sales, channel partner management, and operational oversight. The emphasis on "operations" within the context of sales includes managing pipelines, CRM documentation, and process implementation, which are critical for GTM success.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Design, Business, Marketing, or a related field is often preferred for roles of this nature, providing a foundational understanding of business principles and design aesthetics. Experience:

• Minimum of 3 years of progressive experience in sales, business development, or client-facing roles, with a strong preference for backgrounds in luxury home goods, interior design, cabinetry, plumbing fixtures, or related high-end product categories.

• Demonstrated success in meeting or exceeding sales targets and driving revenue growth in competitive markets.

• Proven experience working with or selling to trade professionals (architects, interior designers, builders) is highly desirable. Required Skills:

• Sales & Business Development: Proven ability to generate leads, develop opportunities, and close sales, particularly in a luxury or design-centric market.

• Client Relationship Management: Expertise in building and maintaining strong, long-term relationships with both retail clients and trade professionals.

• Product Knowledge & Presentation: Ability to quickly acquire and articulate deep product knowledge, and to present complex product portfolios compellingly.

• CRM Proficiency: Comfortable and proficient with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or similar) for lead tracking, opportunity management, and sales forecasting.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Strong command of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook, for reporting, presentations, and daily operations.

• Communication & Influencing: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a natural ability to influence, negotiate, and build rapport.

• Organization & Time Management: Highly organized with a strong capacity for self-management, capable of prioritizing tasks and managing multiple concurrent projects effectively.

Preferred Skills:

• Design Acumen: A genuine passion for design, craftsmanship, and an understanding of interior design principles.

• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Working knowledge of cabinetry design or plumbing fixtures, which can provide a significant advantage in understanding client needs and product applications.

• Visual Merchandising: Familiarity with visual merchandising principles to ensure optimal product presentation within a retail environment.

• Marketing Campaign Execution: Experience in planning and executing marketing activities to drive brand awareness and lead generation.

• Channel Partner Management: Experience in managing and growing relationships with retail partners or distribution channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of sales drive, client-facing interpersonal skills, and operational execution. Experience with CRM and Microsoft Office is critical for tracking and reporting, aligning with sales operations functions. The preference for design-related industries underscores the luxury positioning of Waterworks.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Sales Track Record: Documented evidence of achieving and exceeding sales targets, presented through performance metrics, key account wins, or case studies of successful sales cycles.

• Client Engagement Examples: Demonstrations of how you've managed client relationships from initial contact through to project completion, highlighting communication strategies and problem-solving approaches.

• Trade Outreach Initiatives: Examples of successful outreach campaigns or relationship-building efforts with architects, designers, or builders, showcasing lead generation and specification wins.

• Product Presentation Materials: Samples of presentation decks or materials used to educate clients or partners about product lines, emphasizing clarity, visual appeal, and persuasive messaging.

Process Documentation:

• Pipeline Management: A clear understanding and ability to articulate your process for managing a sales pipeline, including lead qualification, opportunity tracking, forecasting, and closing strategies.

• CRM Utilization: Evidence of structured data entry and utilization within CRM systems to manage client interactions, track sales activities, and generate performance reports.

• Marketing Activity Execution: Examples of how you've planned, executed, and measured the impact of marketing initiatives, such as in-gallery events, trade outreach programs, or digital campaigns.

• Cross-Functional Communication Protocols: Demonstrated ability to establish and maintain clear communication channels with internal teams (e.g., Waterworks corporate, RH Gallery management) and external partners to ensure alignment and efficient project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a formal portfolio might not be strictly required by the application, but candidates should be prepared to discuss their past successes and methodologies in detail. The emphasis should be on quantifiable achievements and well-defined processes for sales, client management, and channel engagement.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• $70,000 - $80,000 annually.

• Note: This range is based on the provided job description and is typical for a mid-level sales and business development role in a high-cost-of-living area like Newport Beach, California, requiring specialized industry experience.

Benefits:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Financial Security: 401k retirement savings plan with potential company match.

• Work-Life Balance: Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) program, including vacation, personal, and sick time.

• Special Perks:

  • Additional summer half-days for enhanced work-life balance.
  • A dedicated volunteer day to support community initiatives.

• Performance-Based Rewards:

  • Potential for an incentive bonus based on individual and/or company performance. Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Flexibility is required to accommodate business needs, which may include evenings, weekends, and travel.

• The role involves up to 50% marketing outside of the gallery, indicating a need for adaptable scheduling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is competitive for a sales role with significant client-facing and business development responsibilities in a prime California location. The benefits package is robust, emphasizing work-life balance and financial well-being, which are attractive to professionals in sales and operations roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Luxury Home Goods / Interior Design / Bath & Kitchen Fixtures. Waterworks operates in a highly competitive and discerning market, where product quality, design aesthetics, and brand reputation are paramount. The partnership with RH (Restoration Hardware) places it within a premium retail ecosystem focused on elevated home furnishings.

Company Size: Waterworks is a well-established brand with a significant presence, likely falling into the medium to large enterprise category, especially when considering its retail presence and partnerships.

Founded: Over 40 years ago, giving Waterworks a deep heritage and extensive experience in its specialized market. This longevity suggests a stable, experienced, and reputable organization.

Team Structure:

• Direct Reporting: The Design Consultant will report to a RH Channel Leader and work closely with internal Waterworks cross-functional teams (likely including Sales leadership, Marketing, and Product Development).

• Gallery Integration: The role is embedded within RH Gallery teams, requiring close collaboration with RH Gallery Leaders and associates, fostering a matrixed reporting and operational structure.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Strong partnerships are expected with internal Waterworks teams to develop sales tools and resources, and with RH sales consultants to drive in-gallery sales.

Methodology:

• Client-Centric Approach: Emphasis on delivering an exceptional luxury client experience, driven by deep product knowledge and personalized consultations.

• Data-Driven Performance: Regular review of account performance, marketing strategies, and revenue goals, utilizing CRM data for tracking and analysis.

• Partnership Cultivation: Strategic focus on building and strengthening relationships with both retail partners (RH) and trade professionals to expand market reach and drive demand.

• Brand Stewardship: Maintaining high standards for visual merchandising and brand presentation to reflect the premium nature of Waterworks products.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Waterworks positions itself as a participant in "exceptional design moments," indicating a culture that values aesthetics, quality, and impactful design. The partnership with RH suggests a shared commitment to luxury and a sophisticated retail experience. The company values of Authenticity, Raising the Bar, Owning It, Partnering for Perfection, and Loving What You Do point to a culture that is collaborative, high-performing, and customer-focused.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-level Design Consultant, bridging the gap between individual contributor sales roles and potential management or specialized channel development positions. It requires a blend of sales acumen, client advisory skills, and operational process management.

Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant reports to a RH Channel Leader, indicating a direct line of management within the partnership structure. However, they also collaborate closely with internal Waterworks teams, suggesting a dotted-line relationship or strong project-based interaction with Waterworks sales and marketing leadership.

Operations Impact: The role's primary impact is on driving revenue through the RH channel and expanding Waterworks' market share within the Southern California trade professional segment. Success in this role directly contributes to the financial performance of the Waterworks × RH partnership and the broader GTM strategy for Waterworks. The operational aspects (pipeline management, CRM, process implementation) are crucial for ensuring efficient and scalable sales execution.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Leadership: Progression to a Senior Design Consultant, Key Account Manager, or Sales Manager role within Waterworks, potentially focusing on specific regions or trade segments.

• Channel Management: Opportunities to move into roles focused on managing and developing channel partnerships, optimizing the relationship with RH or other retail partners.

• Specialized Design Consulting: Deepening expertise in specific product categories (e.g., custom fittings, architectural hardware) or focusing on high-profile project specifications.

• Training & Development: Potential to transition into roles focused on training and developing other sales consultants or partner associates, leveraging their expertise.

• Cross-Functional Moves: Opportunities to move into marketing, product development, or operations roles within Waterworks, leveraging their understanding of the sales channel and customer needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path here is strongly tied to sales performance and relationship management within the luxury design sector. Growth opportunities are clear for those who excel in driving revenue and managing complex partnerships. The emphasis on operations within this sales context means that developing strong process management skills can be a differentiator for advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary work environment is the RH Gallery in Newport Beach, California. This is a high-end retail showroom designed to showcase luxury home furnishings and products. The role also requires significant time spent outside the gallery for market development and trade outreach.

Office Location(s): The role is based at the RH Gallery in Newport Beach, CA. Travel within Southern California is expected for client meetings, site visits, and industry events, constituting up to 50% of the working time outside the gallery.

Workspace Context:

• Gallery Environment: A sophisticated and aesthetically pleasing showroom designed for client consultations, product demonstrations, and high-touch customer service.

• Mobile Workspace: Requires a functional setup for working remotely or in client offices, including digital tools for presentations, communication, and CRM access.

• Collaborative Setting: Close interaction with RH Gallery associates and leaders, as well as internal Waterworks teams, fostering a collaborative and team-oriented atmosphere within a sales context.

Work Schedule:

• Primarily Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

• Requires flexibility for evenings, weekends, and travel, common in sales roles that cater to client availability and industry event schedules.

• Up to 50% of the role involves marketing and outreach activities outside the gallery, requiring efficient time management and planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a dynamic work environment that blends the structured setting of a luxury retail showroom with the flexibility and travel required for business development and client engagement. The on-site requirement emphasizes the importance of in-person client interaction and brand representation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely a phone or video call with an HR representative or hiring manager to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• In-Depth Interview(s): Series of interviews, potentially including the RH Channel Leader, Waterworks Sales Management, and possibly RH Gallery leadership. These interviews will focus on sales experience, client management skills, product knowledge, and strategic thinking.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare a presentation on a specific topic, such as a strategy for increasing Waterworks sales within the RH Gallery, a plan for engaging local trade professionals, or a demonstration of product knowledge.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluation of alignment with Waterworks' core values (Authenticity, Raise The Bar, Own It, Partner For Perfection, Love What You Do) and the luxury brand ethos.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For sales roles, tangible metrics are key. Showcase your track record with specific numbers: revenue growth, lead conversion rates, client acquisition numbers, and sales target attainment.

• Illustrate Process: If presenting case studies, clearly outline the problem, your proposed solution, the steps you took (your process), and the measurable results. This demonstrates your operational thinking.

• Showcase Relationship Building: Provide examples of how you've nurtured client relationships, managed trade partnerships, and built rapport.

• Highlight Design Passion: If you have a portfolio of design projects or strong visual communication examples, include them to demonstrate your passion and aesthetic sensibility.

• Tailor to Waterworks & RH: Research Waterworks' product lines and RH's brand aesthetic. Frame your experience and examples to show how you can seamlessly integrate and contribute to this specific partnership.

Challenge Preparation:

• Sales Strategy: Be prepared to discuss how you would approach increasing Waterworks sales within the RH Gallery context, considering current market trends and the RH customer base.

• Trade Outreach Plan: Develop a hypothetical plan for engaging architects, interior designers, and builders in Southern California, including outreach methods, value propositions, and follow-up strategies.

• Product Knowledge Demonstration: Be ready to discuss Waterworks' product categories, key selling points, and how you would educate others on their benefits.

• Operational Efficiency: Think about how you would manage your pipeline, track leads, and report on progress using CRM tools. Be prepared to discuss your approach to operational aspects of sales management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both sales prowess and an understanding of operational excellence in managing a sales channel. Candidates should be ready to demonstrate not just what they achieved, but how they achieved it through structured processes and strategic thinking.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM Platform: Proficiency with a CRM system is essential for managing client information, tracking sales activities, logging interactions, and forecasting sales. Examples include Salesforce, HubSpot, or similar enterprise-level CRMs.

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced skills in Word (document creation, reporting), Excel (data analysis, spreadsheets, basic reporting), PowerPoint (presentations for clients and internal stakeholders), and Outlook (communication, scheduling).

• Sales Enablement Tools: Familiarity with any tools used for sales presentations, proposal generation, or product configuration, if applicable.

Analytics & Reporting:

• CRM Reporting Features: Ability to extract and interpret data from the CRM for performance analysis and reporting.

• Spreadsheet Software: Proficiency in Excel for custom data analysis and reporting beyond what CRM offers.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM System: As mentioned, a robust CRM is central to managing the sales process and customer interactions.

• Communication Tools: Standard business communication platforms like email (Outlook), instant messaging (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams), and video conferencing tools (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet) for internal and external collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on CRM and Microsoft Office highlights the operational backbone of this sales role. Candidates need to be comfortable using technology to manage their workflow, track performance, and communicate effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Be Authentic: Engage in genuine, honest communication with clients, colleagues, and partners, fostering trust and transparency.

• Raise The Bar: Continuously seek opportunities to improve sales processes, enhance client experiences, and elevate product knowledge and presentation standards.

• Own It: Take full responsibility for sales targets, project management, and client satisfaction, demonstrating accountability and a proactive approach.

• Partner For Perfection: Collaborate effectively with RH Gallery teams, internal Waterworks departments, and trade professionals to achieve shared goals and deliver superior client outcomes.

• Love What You Do & Do What You Love: Bring enthusiasm and passion for design, luxury products, and client service to every interaction, driving engagement and excitement for the Waterworks brand.

Collaboration Style:

• Integrated Partnership: Work closely with RH Gallery staff, acting as a Waterworks ambassador and educator within their environment.

• Cross-Functional Synergy: Maintain open communication and proactive collaboration with Waterworks internal teams (sales, marketing, product) to ensure alignment and support.

• Trade Network Engagement: Build and maintain strong professional relationships with architects, designers, and builders, fostering a collaborative spirit to secure project specifications.

• Feedback & Improvement: Participate in a culture of continuous improvement by sharing feedback and insights to refine processes and enhance the Waterworks × RH partnership.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values are deeply integrated into the role, emphasizing a high-touch, collaborative, and performance-driven culture. Success will depend on not only sales skills but also the ability to embody these values in daily interactions and operations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Dual Partnerships: Effectively navigating the relationship and operational demands of both Waterworks and RH, ensuring alignment and meeting the expectations of both organizations.

• Market Penetration: Establishing and growing Waterworks' presence and specifications within the competitive Southern California design and construction market, requiring persistent outreach and relationship building.

• Product Education & Adoption: Consistently training RH associates and educating trade professionals on Waterworks' extensive product lines and unique selling propositions.

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Effectively communicating and collaborating with a wide range of individuals, from retail associates to high-profile architects and internal directors, each with different needs and priorities.

• Travel Demands: Juggling in-gallery responsibilities with up to 50% travel outside the showroom, requiring strong time management and logistical planning.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Deepen Design & Product Expertise: Gain in-depth knowledge of luxury bath and kitchen fixtures, cabinetry, and related design elements, becoming a recognized expert.

• Advanced Sales & Negotiation Skills: Hone skills in high-stakes sales, consultative selling, and negotiation within the luxury design sector.

• Channel Management Acumen: Develop a strategic understanding of retail partnerships and channel operations, learning how to optimize performance and drive mutual success.

• Industry Networking: Build a robust professional network within the architecture, interior design, and building industries in Southern California.

• Exposure to Luxury Brand Operations: Learn best practices in luxury retail, brand management, and premium customer service from two respected brands (Waterworks and RH).

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a role that bridges retail, B2B sales, and brand representation. The growth opportunities are significant for individuals who can master these complexities and demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning in the luxury design space.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "How would you approach developing a strategy to increase Waterworks' sales within the Newport Beach RH Gallery by 15% in the next fiscal year?" (Focus on data analysis, marketing initiatives, sales training plans, and partnership engagement.)

• "Describe your process for identifying, engaging, and nurturing relationships with key architects and interior designers in the Southern California market." (Highlight outreach methods, value propositions, follow-up protocols, and CRM utilization.)

• "Imagine a scenario where an RH associate is struggling to effectively sell Waterworks fixtures. What steps would you take to coach and empower them?" (Demonstrate your training and mentoring approach, focusing on product knowledge, sales techniques, and confidence-building.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your research, how do you see Waterworks' brand values aligning with your own professional philosophy and approach to client engagement?" (Connect your experience to Waterworks' core values and the luxury market.)

• "How would you ensure effective communication and collaboration between Waterworks, RH Gallery management, and the sales associates to maximize performance?" (Discuss your communication strategies and experience in cross-functional environments.)

• "Describe a time you had to adapt your sales approach for different customer segments (e.g., retail clients vs. trade professionals). How did you tailor your message and strategy?" (Showcase your adaptability and understanding of diverse client needs.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantifiable Success Stories: Select 2-3 key achievements (e.g., exceeding a sales target, securing a major trade account, successfully launching a new product) and structure them as mini case studies with clear problem, solution, action, and result (PSAR) frameworks.

• Process Walkthrough: Be prepared to walk through your typical sales process, from lead generation and qualification to closing and post-sale follow-up, highlighting your operational methods and use of tools like CRM.

• Demonstrate Design Sensibility: If you have visual examples (photos of projects you've consulted on, mood boards, or presentation mock-ups), use them to illustrate your design eye and understanding of aesthetics relevant to Waterworks.

• Address Partnership Dynamics: Be ready to discuss your experience working with retail partners or managing channel relationships, emphasizing how you foster collaboration and drive mutual success.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should heavily focus on demonstrating a blend of sales drive, operational process management, and a genuine appreciation for luxury design. Candidates need to articulate not just what they've done, but how they've done it and the impact it has had.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on jobs.lever.co.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare to discuss or present examples that highlight your sales achievements (quantifiable results), experience with trade professionals, and your process for managing client projects and pipelines. Tailor your resume to emphasize experience in luxury sales, business development, and client relationship management within the design or home goods sectors.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 3+ years of relevant experience, focusing on achievements rather than just responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description such as "luxury sales," "business development," "trade outreach," "CRM management," and "client experience."

• Interview Preparation: Practice answering behavioral and situational interview questions related to sales strategy, client management, partnership collaboration, and problem-solving. Be ready to articulate your understanding of the Waterworks brand and the RH partnership.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research Waterworks' product lines, brand ethos, and recent initiatives. Understand RH's brand positioning and customer base to demonstrate how you can effectively bridge the two. Familiarize yourself with Waterworks' core values and be prepared to discuss how you embody them.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description provides a detailed overview and strategic insights for operations professionals. While it aims for accuracy based on available data, candidates should always verify specific details, benefits, and responsibilities directly with Waterworks during the interview process.