Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: Hudson's Furniture

Location: Ormond Beach, Florida, United States

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Sales / Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-09

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

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive revenue growth by achieving monthly sales goals within the retail furniture environment.

• Cultivate strong client relationships through personalized design consultations and exceptional customer service.

• Leverage a passion for interior design and an understanding of client needs to curate furniture and décor selections.

• Manage the end-to-end client experience, from initial consultation through project completion, ensuring high customer satisfaction.

• Collaborate with internal teams and external vendors to ensure seamless project execution and product delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the core responsibilities and requirements strongly indicate a client-facing sales and design consultant role rather than a traditional management position overseeing a team of designers. The emphasis on individual sales goals and client interaction points to a "sales manager" or "design consultant" capacity within a sales-driven structure. This role is focused on individual performance within a sales and design context, not team management.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Consistently meet and exceed monthly sales targets through effective client engagement and product expertise.

• Create a welcoming and inspiring atmosphere for clients, fostering trust and building rapport.

• Develop and nurture long-term client relationships to generate repeat business and valuable referrals.

• Conduct comprehensive furniture and décor selections based on client style, functional needs, and budgetary constraints.

• Perform in-home consultations to gain a deeper understanding of client spaces and specific design challenges.

• Maintain proactive communication with clients throughout the sales, design, and delivery phases.

• Stay abreast of current product lines, design trends, and industry best practices to provide informed recommendations.

• Ensure all client interactions and project management activities are meticulously documented and followed up on.

• Collaborate effectively with sales, design, and operations teams to ensure a cohesive client experience.

• Manage client interactions and sales pipeline using CRM tools to track progress and identify opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of sales acumen, design consultation, and client relationship management. While "Manager" is in the title, the focus is on individual sales performance and client success, typical of a senior sales consultant or design specialist role, especially given the "0-2 years" experience level.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: High school diploma or equivalent required. Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Interior Design, Business, Marketing, or a related field is a plus but not strictly required.

Experience: 0-2 years of experience in a client-facing role such as sales, customer service, hospitality, or design. Prior experience in furniture retail or interior design consultation is beneficial but not mandatory.

Required Skills:

• A genuine passion for interior design, sales, and assisting customers.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with a talent for active listening and empathetic engagement.

• Proven ability to build and maintain strong, lasting relationships with clients.

• Self-motivated with a persistent, results-driven mindset and a hunger for success.

• High energy levels and a consistently positive and enthusiastic attitude.

• Aptitude for understanding diverse client styles, individual needs, and budget considerations.

• Meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of client interaction and project management.

• Strong organizational and time-management skills to effectively handle multiple clients and tasks.

• A proactive and eager willingness to learn new skills, products, and design principles. Preferred Skills:

• Familiarity with CRM software for lead and client management.

• Basic understanding of interior design principles and space planning.

• Experience in a commission-based sales environment.

• Proficiency in visual merchandising or space layout.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "0-2 years" experience level suggests that while formal design education is a plus, the company prioritizes transferable skills like communication, relationship-building, and a strong sales aptitude. The role emphasizes potential and trainability over extensive prior experience.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While a formal portfolio is not explicitly required due to the experience level, candidates are encouraged to showcase examples of personal design projects, mood boards, or any visual representations of their design aesthetic and understanding of client needs.

• Applicants with prior sales experience should be prepared to discuss sales strategies, client acquisition methods, and how they've achieved sales targets.

• For individuals transitioning from other industries, focus on transferable skills like client consultation, problem-solving, and relationship management with tangible examples.

• Any examples demonstrating an understanding of space utilization, color theory, or furniture selection would be advantageous. Process Documentation:

• Candidates should be able to articulate their approach to client consultation, from initial greeting to understanding needs and presenting solutions.

• The ability to describe a process for managing client follow-ups and ensuring satisfaction post-purchase is expected.

• Demonstrating an understanding of how to manage a sales pipeline and track progress through various stages of the sales cycle.

• Articulating the steps involved in conducting an in-home consultation and translating those insights into design recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the entry-level nature, a formal portfolio of professional design work isn't expected. Instead, the focus will be on showcasing potential, creativity, and transferable skills through examples of personal projects or well-articulated processes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for Design Consultants/Sales Associates in Ormond Beach, Florida, with 0-2 years of experience, a competitive compensation package would typically include:

• Base Salary: $35,000 - $45,000 annually.

• Commission: 5-10% commission on sales, potentially tiered based on performance.

• On-Target Earnings (OTE): $50,000 - $75,000+ annually, depending on sales performance.

Benefits:

• Competitive base pay plus uncapped commission opportunities for high performers.

• Paid vacation time to ensure work-life balance.

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Company-matched 401(k) retirement savings plan.

• Generous employee discount on all Hudson's Furniture products.

• Structured and comprehensive training programs for ongoing professional development.

• Clear opportunities for career advancement within the organization.

• Access to a supportive and collaborative team-oriented work environment.

Working Hours: Full-time, typically involving retail hours which may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, to accommodate customer availability. Standard work week is approximately 40 hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on the provided location (Ormond Beach, FL), experience level (0-2 years), and the hybrid sales/design consultant nature of the role. The commission structure is typical for retail sales roles in this sector, aiming to incentivize performance. Benefits are directly listed from the job description.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Furniture & Home Decor). Hudson's Furniture operates within the home furnishings retail sector, a competitive market driven by consumer trends, product quality, and exceptional customer experience.

Company Size: The company likely falls into the medium-sized business category, given the presence of multiple locations and established career progression paths. This size often allows for a close-knit team environment while providing structure and resources for professional development.

Founded: Since 1981, Hudson's Furniture has been committed to "Turning Houses into Homes." This long-standing history indicates stability, established customer loyalty, and a deep understanding of the local market.

Team Structure:

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

• Collaboration is expected with other Design Managers, sales associates, delivery teams, and potentially administrative staff.

• Cross-functional interaction will also occur with buyers, merchandisers, and marketing teams to stay informed about new products and promotions. Methodology:

• Client-centric approach: Prioritizing customer satisfaction and building long-term relationships is key.

• Sales-driven environment: Focus on achieving individual and team sales goals through effective consultation and persuasive selling.

• Continuous improvement: Emphasis on ongoing training and development to enhance design skills, sales techniques, and product knowledge.

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

Company Website: https://www.hudsonsfurniture.com/ (Inferred from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: Based on the company's founding date and industry, the culture is likely to be customer-focused, with an emphasis on building relationships and delivering value. The "Manager" title, combined with entry-level experience, suggests a focus on individual performance within a supportive team structure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Entry-Level Sales & Design Consultant. This role serves as a foundational position within the sales and design function of Hudson's Furniture. It's designed for individuals starting their careers or transitioning from other client-facing roles, focusing on developing core sales competencies, design consultation skills, and customer relationship management.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager, who oversees daily operations, sales performance, and team development within a specific retail location. This structure provides direct mentorship and performance guidance.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager directly impacts revenue generation through sales performance and influences customer loyalty and brand reputation through exceptional service and design expertise. Their ability to understand and meet client needs translates directly into sales success and positive word-of-mouth referrals, contributing significantly to the company's overall growth and market presence.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Sales Specialist: Advancement to a role with higher commission rates, more complex client projects, or specialized product knowledge.

• Showroom Manager/Sales Lead: Transition into a leadership role responsible for managing a sales team, overseeing daily operations, and driving store-level performance.

• Specialized Design Roles: Potential to move into areas like commercial sales, custom design services, or visual merchandising if skills and interests align.

• Ongoing Training & Development: Access to continuous learning opportunities in sales techniques, interior design trends, and product knowledge to foster professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Manager" title in conjunction with the "0-2 years" experience level suggests a growth path rather than an immediate managerial role. The focus is on developing the individual's sales and design capabilities to eventually take on more senior or leadership responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site within a retail showroom environment. This is a customer-facing role operating within a physical Hudson's Furniture store.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is the Hudson's Furniture store in Ormond Beach, Florida. The role may also involve occasional in-home visits to clients' residences within a reasonable service area.

Workspace Context:

• The showroom environment is designed to be visually appealing, showcasing a wide range of furniture and décor. This provides an inspiring backdrop for client consultations.

• The role involves significant interaction with clients on the sales floor, requiring a dynamic and engaging presence.

• Access to product samples, design resources, and potentially design software or tools within the showroom will support daily tasks.

• Collaboration with colleagues on the sales floor and support staff is integral to the daily workflow.

Work Schedule: Full-time hours, typically aligning with retail operational needs, which commonly include evenings, weekends, and potentially holidays. Flexibility in scheduling is often required to meet customer demand and achieve sales objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is explicitly on-site within a retail showroom, emphasizing customer interaction and product display. The inclusion of in-home visits adds a dynamic element to the daily schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A phone or video call to assess basic qualifications, enthusiasm, and understanding of the role's sales and design focus. Be prepared to discuss your interest in furniture, design, and sales.

• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Showroom Manager or Hiring Manager. Expect behavioral questions about your experience with customer service, sales, problem-solving, and teamwork. You may be asked to walk through your resume and discuss your motivations.

• Sales/Design Scenario: You might be given a hypothetical client scenario to gauge your approach to consultation, needs assessment, and product recommendation. Prepare to articulate how you would engage a client and guide them through selections.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: The interview will also assess your alignment with Hudson's Furniture's values, such as teamwork, customer focus, and a drive for results.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Since this is an entry-level role, a formal "portfolio" isn't strictly necessary. Instead, focus on showcasing your passion and potential.

• Prepare examples of personal design projects (e.g., room makeovers, mood boards, sketches) that demonstrate your aesthetic sensibility and understanding of space.

• If you have sales experience, be ready to discuss specific achievements, sales strategies you employed, and how you built client relationships.

• Highlight transferable skills from previous roles, emphasizing how your communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal abilities will translate to success in this role.

• Be prepared to articulate your understanding of furniture styles, trends, and how you'd approach helping a client define their personal style. Challenge Preparation:

• Anticipate questions about how you handle rejection, manage multiple client needs simultaneously, or motivate yourself to achieve sales goals.

• Practice articulating your design process and how you would translate a client's needs into specific product recommendations.

• Be ready to discuss your understanding of Hudson's Furniture's brand and product offerings (research their website thoroughly).

• Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the team, training, sales targets, and growth opportunities to demonstrate your engagement and interest.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is geared towards assessing sales potential, design aptitude, and client relationship skills, with less emphasis on a formal design portfolio due to the entry-level nature. Preparation should focus on demonstrating transferable skills and a passion for the role.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Likely a customer relationship management system (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or a proprietary system) for managing leads, tracking client interactions, sales pipeline management, and follow-ups. Proficiency in basic CRM functions is expected.

• Point of Sale (POS) System: For processing sales transactions, managing inventory, and handling customer payments.

• Internal Communication Tools: Email, instant messaging (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams), and potentially project management software for team coordination.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic reporting functionalities within the CRM and POS systems to track individual sales performance, conversion rates, and client engagement metrics.

• Ability to interpret sales reports and identify trends to inform sales strategies. CRM & Automation:

• Experience with CRM software is highly beneficial for managing client relationships and sales processes effectively.

• While extensive automation knowledge isn't a primary requirement, understanding how CRM systems can automate follow-ups and task reminders is advantageous.

• Familiarity with any internal systems used for order processing, inventory management, or customer service.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack will primarily revolve around retail sales and customer relationship management tools. Proficiency in CRM is a key asset, supporting the role's focus on client engagement and sales tracking.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations in every interaction.

• Performance Driven: A focus on achieving and surpassing individual and team sales goals through dedication and skill.

• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working harmoniously with colleagues to support each other and ensure a seamless customer journey.

• Continuous Learning: Embracing opportunities to enhance design knowledge, sales techniques, and product expertise.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all client dealings and professional conduct.

Collaboration Style:

• The team fosters a supportive and collaborative atmosphere, where members assist each other in serving clients and achieving collective goals.

• Open communication channels are encouraged, allowing for sharing of best practices, design ideas, and client insights.

• A culture of mutual respect and shared responsibility for the showroom's overall success and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is likely to emphasize customer satisfaction, sales achievement, and teamwork, reflecting a typical retail environment with a focus on building lasting client relationships.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Achieving Sales Quotas: Consistently meeting demanding monthly sales targets in a competitive market requires strong sales skills and resilience.

• Balancing Design and Sales: Effectively blending creative design consultation with persuasive sales techniques to close deals.

• Managing Diverse Client Needs: Catering to a wide range of client styles, budgets, and expectations requires adaptability and excellent problem-solving.

• Staying Current with Trends: Keeping up-to-date with rapidly evolving furniture styles, décor trends, and product offerings.

• Handling In-Home Consultations: Successfully navigating client homes, assessing spaces, and providing recommendations in a personal setting.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Comprehensive Product Training: In-depth knowledge of Hudson's Furniture's extensive product lines, materials, and design features.

• Sales Skills Development: Training on effective sales techniques, closing strategies, and consultative selling approaches.

• Interior Design Fundamentals: Workshops or resources covering basic design principles, space planning, and color theory.

• Customer Service Excellence: Programs focused on enhancing client interaction, conflict resolution, and building customer loyalty.

• Career Pathing: Clear pathways for advancement into senior sales roles, management positions, or specialized design functions within the company.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents opportunities to develop both sales and design skills, with challenges centered around performance metrics and client management. The company provides structured learning to support growth in these areas.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you successfully persuaded a client to make a purchase or choose a particular product. What was your approach?" (Focus on sales techniques and client understanding).

• "How would you approach designing a living room for a client who has provided very little information about their style or needs?" (Demonstrate your consultative process).

• "Imagine a client is unhappy with a furniture delivery. How would you handle this situation to ensure their satisfaction?" (Highlight customer service and problem-solving skills). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What attracts you to Hudson's Furniture specifically, and what do you know about our brand?" (Research their website, mission, and values).

• "How do you see yourself contributing to a team-oriented sales environment?" (Emphasize collaboration and support for colleagues).

• "What does 'turning houses into homes' mean to you, and how would you embody that philosophy in this role?" (Connect to the company's mission). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• If presenting personal design work, focus on the "why" behind your choices (e.g., client needs, budget constraints, desired aesthetic).

• For sales examples, quantify your achievements whenever possible (e.g., "exceeded sales target by X%," "increased repeat customer rate by Y%").

• Clearly articulate how your skills and experiences, even from non-design/sales roles, are transferable and will make you successful in this position.

• Be ready to discuss how you stay inspired by design trends and how you would apply that knowledge to client selections.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of sales acumen, design sensibility, customer service skills, and a genuine enthusiasm for the furniture industry and Hudson's Furniture's brand.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on the Hudson's Furniture Careers portal.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight customer-facing experience, sales achievements (even if informal), communication skills, and any design-related interests or projects. Use keywords like "sales," "customer service," "design consultation," "relationship building," and "client engagement."

• Portfolio Preparation (Optional but Recommended): If you have any personal design projects, mood boards, or examples of your aesthetic, prepare to briefly discuss them. If you have sales experience, prepare to talk about your successes and strategies.

• Company Research: Thoroughly review the Hudson's Furniture website to understand their product lines, brand identity, company history, and mission ("Turning Houses into Homes").

• Interview Practice: Practice articulating your responses to common interview questions related to sales, customer service, design, and teamwork. Be ready to discuss your motivation for pursuing a career in furniture sales and design.

⚠️ 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.