Design Consultant

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant Company: Tilebar | Soho Studio LLC Location: Raleigh, North Carolina, United States Job Type: Full-Time Category: Sales Operations / Customer Success Operations Date Posted: August 20, 2025 Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Serve as the primary client-facing representative within a new showroom, driving customer engagement and providing expert design consultation.
• Manage the end-to-end sales cycle, from initial client interaction and product recommendation through to order processing and fulfillment, ensuring operational efficiency.
• Leverage product knowledge and industry trends to curate material selections and create custom design solutions for a diverse clientele including homeowners, designers, and contractors.
• Foster strong, long-term client relationships through exceptional customer service and personalized support, contributing to customer retention and repeat business.
• Act as a brand ambassador, embodying TileBar's values and commitment to quality and service in all interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and emphasis on sales cycle management, order processing, CRM tracking, and client relationship building strongly align with roles in Sales Operations and Customer Success Operations, particularly those focused on the front-end customer journey and sales enablement. The role bridges sales, customer service, and operational execution within a physical retail environment.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Client Consultation & Engagement: Act as the main point of contact within the showroom, delivering expert advice on tile selection, design trends, and project planning to a varied customer base.
• Sales Cycle Management: Oversee the complete sales process, including lead qualification, proposal generation, quoting, purchase order creation, and ensuring accurate CRM data entry and tracking.
• Product Curation & Recommendation: Utilize deep product knowledge to recommend appropriate materials, create custom design boards, and present solutions that align with client aesthetics and functional requirements.
• Order Fulfillment & Logistics Coordination: Collaborate with internal teams to ensure timely and accurate order processing, manage inventory inquiries, and understand basic logistics to facilitate smooth deliveries.
• Customer Relationship Management: Build and nurture lasting relationships with clients by providing consistent, high-quality service, addressing inquiries promptly, and fostering loyalty.
• Showroom Operations Support: Contribute to the overall smooth functioning of the showroom, including maintaining visual merchandising standards, managing sample inventory, and supporting team operational goals.
• Brand Advocacy: Represent TileBar professionally, articulating the company's value proposition and commitment to customer satisfaction to all stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct sales, consultative design, and operational execution. The emphasis on "order management," "CRM tracking," and "logistics understanding" points to a need for operational rigor and process adherence, typical of roles supporting sales and customer success functions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• High School Diploma required.
• Bachelor's degree preferred, ideally in Interior Design, Business, Marketing, or a related field.

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in sales, customer service, or a client-facing consultative role.
• Prior experience within a showroom, retail, luxury sales, or interior design environment is highly advantageous.
• Experience working with building materials, tile, stone, furniture, or textiles is a significant plus.

Required Skills:

• Consultative Selling: Proven ability to engage clients, understand their needs, and guide them towards suitable product solutions, driving sales performance.
• Customer Engagement & Relationship Management: Exceptional interpersonal skills for building rapport, fostering trust, and cultivating long-term client loyalty.
• Product Knowledge Acquisition: Aptitude and willingness to quickly learn about a wide range of tile and stone products, their applications, and design principles.
• Communication & Presentation: Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and product benefits clearly.
• Problem-Solving & Decision-Making: Ability to analyze client needs, resolve inquiries efficiently, and make sound recommendations.
• Time Management & Multitasking: Proficiency in managing multiple client interactions, sales processes, and showroom tasks concurrently in a dynamic environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Competency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook).

Preferred Skills:

• CRM Software Proficiency: Experience with CRM systems such as Salesforce, SalesPad, Magento, or similar platforms for sales tracking and customer management.
• Design Software Familiarity: Basic knowledge of design visualization tools or platforms used in interior design consultation.
• Logistics & Supply Chain Awareness: Understanding of order fulfillment, inventory management, and basic supply chain principles relevant to product delivery.
• Industry-Specific Knowledge: Familiarity with tile, stone, or flooring product categories and installation processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Technical & Operational Skills" section, specifically mentioning CRM experience and logistics understanding, indicates a need for candidates who can manage operational aspects of sales transactions. The preference for CRM experience aligns with standard requirements for roles supporting sales operations and customer management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Client Case Studies: Examples showcasing successful client consultations, demonstrating your ability to understand needs, propose solutions, and manage the sales process. Highlight projects where you influenced design decisions and facilitated sales.
• Sales Performance Metrics: If available, include quantifiable achievements related to sales targets, customer satisfaction, or relationship building to demonstrate impact and operational efficiency.
• Design Presentation Examples: Visual representations of design boards, mood boards, or material palettes you have created to support client consultations.
• Process Workflow Examples: While not explicitly a portfolio item, be prepared to discuss your process for managing a client from initial contact through to order completion, highlighting efficiency and customer focus.

Process Documentation:

• Client Onboarding & Consultation: Be ready to describe your systematic approach to engaging new clients, understanding their project scope, and providing tailored design advice.
• Sales Order Management: Articulate your process for creating quotes, processing orders, managing client expectations regarding delivery, and using CRM tools to track progress.
• Customer Relationship Maintenance: Explain how you maintain ongoing client relationships, handle follow-ups, and encourage repeat business through proactive engagement.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a traditional "operations portfolio" might not be expected for this client-facing role, the emphasis on "sales and order management," "CRM tracking," and "logistics understanding" implies a need for candidates who can demonstrate structured approaches to sales processes and customer management. The portfolio should reflect these operational aspects within a sales and design context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $60,000 - $65,000 per year (Base Salary)

Commission/Incentives:

• The role includes commission incentives, which will be detailed further during the interview process. This structure is designed to reward high performance and sales achievement.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Paid Time Off: Vacation days, sick leave, and holidays.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Opportunities for 401(k) or similar savings plans.
• Employee Discount: Discount on TileBar products.
• Career Development: Opportunities for training and advancement within a growing company.

Working Hours:

• 40 hours per week, typically.
• Flexibility is required to work retail hours, which include weekends, evenings, and potentially special events, as dictated by showroom operating needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The base salary range of $60,000-$65,000 per year for a mid-level sales consultant in Raleigh, NC, is competitive, especially when considering the added commission incentives. This range reflects a role that combines client advisory with direct sales responsibility, aligning with industry standards for showroom-based sales professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Building Materials (specifically Tile and Stone) Company Size: Soho Studio LLC/Tilebar is part of a growing brand, indicating a dynamic and expanding operational footprint. While exact employee numbers aren't provided, the opening of a new showroom suggests significant growth and investment. Founded: 2006, positioning TileBar as a modern, digitally-native company within the traditional tile industry.

Team Structure:

• Showroom-Based Team: This role is part of a new Raleigh showroom team, likely comprising other Design Consultants, a Showroom Manager, and possibly support staff for operations and fulfillment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Expect collaboration with internal departments such as sales operations, marketing, customer service, inventory management, and potentially e-commerce teams, depending on the company's integrated structure.
• Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant will likely report to a Showroom Manager or a Regional Sales Manager, who oversees the performance and operations of multiple showrooms.

Methodology:

• Technology-Driven Operations: TileBar emphasizes using technology for streamlined and efficient business practices, aiming to pass savings onto customers. This suggests a culture that embraces digital tools for sales, CRM, and potentially inventory management.
• Customer-Centric Approach: The company prioritizes a "best-in-class customer experience," indicating a strong focus on service, personalization, and client satisfaction as key operational drivers.
• Growth & Innovation: As a young company in a traditional industry, TileBar likely fosters a culture of innovation, adaptability, and continuous improvement to drive expansion and market differentiation.

Company Website: tilebar.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's founding in 2006 and its emphasis on technology and efficiency suggest a modern operational approach. This means candidates should be comfortable with digital tools and data-driven decision-making, even within a physical showroom setting. The "forward-thinking business practices" mentioned in the description are key indicators of the operational environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position functions as a key client-facing operational role within the sales and customer experience domain. It requires a blend of sales acumen, design sensibility, and process execution, placing it at a mid-level for client engagement and sales support.

Reporting Structure: The Design Consultant will typically report to a Showroom Manager or a Sales Director who oversees showroom operations. This structure allows for direct guidance on sales strategies, customer service protocols, and showroom operational best practices.

Operations Impact: The Design Consultant directly impacts revenue through sales generation and customer retention. Their ability to manage the sales process efficiently, provide excellent customer service, and maintain accurate CRM data contributes to overall sales operational effectiveness, customer satisfaction, and brand reputation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Design Consultant/Design Specialist: With demonstrated success in sales, client management, and product expertise, progression to a more senior or specialized design role is possible.
• Showroom Management: Opportunities to move into management roles, overseeing showroom operations, staff, and performance targets.
• Sales Operations/Account Management: Potential to transition into back-end sales operations, account management, or business development roles within TileBar, leveraging showroom experience.
• Training & Development: Access to product training, sales technique workshops, and potentially design-focused professional development to enhance skills and career trajectory.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path implies a trajectory from client interaction and sales execution to potential leadership or specialized operational roles within the sales organization, highlighting the transferable skills gained in this position.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is a Showroom environment. It's a customer-facing retail space designed to showcase tile and stone products, serving as a hub for client consultations, sales activities, and product selection.

Office Location(s):

• The role is based at the new TileBar Showroom in Raleigh, North Carolina. Specific address details would be provided upon application or interview scheduling.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The showroom is a dynamic space where team members work together to manage client needs, support sales activities, and ensure the overall customer experience is positive.
• Product-Centric: The workspace is heavily influenced by the product, requiring organization, visual appeal, and accessibility to samples and displays.
• Technology Integration: While a physical space, expect integration of technology for CRM, order processing, and potentially digital design tools.

Work Schedule:

• The role requires flexibility to work retail hours, including evenings, weekends, and potentially holidays, to accommodate customer availability and showroom operational needs. Standard full-time hours (approx. 40/week) will be expected, balanced with showroom coverage requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The showroom setting emphasizes a hands-on, client-interactive work environment, distinct from typical office-based operations roles. The need for flexible retail hours is a critical aspect of the work schedule.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and qualifications to assess suitability for the role.
• First Interview: Typically with a Hiring Manager or Showroom Manager, focusing on sales experience, customer service philosophy, product interest, and basic operational understanding. Expect questions around past sales achievements and client interaction scenarios.
• Second Interview/Practical Assessment: May involve a more in-depth discussion, role-playing a client consultation, or presenting design ideas. This stage often assesses design sensibility, consultative selling skills, and problem-solving abilities.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader, focusing on cultural fit, long-term career aspirations, and a deeper dive into operational approach.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Showcase Sales Impact: If you have sales data, highlight your ability to meet or exceed targets. Quantify your successes with numbers (e.g., "increased sales by X%," "achieved Y% of quota").
• Demonstrate Client Journey Management: Prepare to walk through a typical client interaction, from initial contact to closing the sale, detailing the steps you take and how you ensure a positive experience.
• Highlight Design Consultation Process: Present examples of design boards or material selections you've curated. Explain your thought process and how you translated client needs into tangible design solutions.
• Focus on Operational Rigor: Be ready to discuss your experience with CRM systems, order processing, and maintaining accurate records. This demonstrates your ability to support operational efficiency.
• Tailor to TileBar: Research TileBar's product lines, aesthetic, and brand values. Frame your experience and portfolio items to align with their specific market and offerings.

Challenge Preparation:

• Consultative Selling Role-Play: Practice scenarios where you guide a customer through product selection, handling objections, and closing a sale.
• Design Presentation: Be prepared to discuss a hypothetical design project or present a few curated material palettes for different client types (e.g., a modern homeowner, traditional designer).
• Operational Scenario Questions: Expect questions about how you would handle a rush of inquiries, manage a complex order, or resolve a customer issue related to delivery or product quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes both customer-facing sales skills and process management. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate not only their design and sales abilities but also their capacity for structured sales operations and customer relationship management.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM System: Proficiency with CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, SalesPad, Magento) is highly desirable for managing client data, tracking sales pipelines, and logging interactions. While not explicitly stated as required, it's a significant advantage.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for daily tasks, including email (Outlook), document creation (Word), and data analysis/tracking (Excel).
• Point of Sale (POS) / Order Management System: Experience with systems used for processing transactions, generating quotes, and managing sales orders.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Basic Data Analysis: Ability to interpret sales data, customer feedback, and performance metrics, likely using Excel or integrated CRM reporting features.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Data Management: Strong understanding of how to maintain accurate and organized customer records within a CRM.
• Sales Process Automation: Familiarity with how CRM systems can automate aspects of the sales cycle, such as follow-up reminders or quote generation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mention of CRM experience as a "plus" and the general need for "technical skills" points to an expectation that candidates are comfortable with digital tools that support sales and customer management, even if they are not deeply technical operations specialists.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer-Centricity: A core value driving all client interactions, ensuring satisfaction and loyalty through exceptional service.
• Efficiency & Streamlining: Commitment to leveraging technology and best practices to create lean, effective operational processes.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Encouraging a supportive environment where team members assist each other to achieve collective showroom and company goals.
• Passion for Design & Quality: A genuine interest in interior design, materials, and creating beautiful spaces, reflected in product knowledge and recommendations.
• Professionalism & Brand Representation: Upholding the company's image and values through consistent, high-quality service and a positive attitude.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Support: Expect to work closely with sales support, operations, and potentially logistics teams to ensure seamless customer transactions and product delivery.
• Shared Goal Orientation: Team members are encouraged to work together to achieve showroom sales targets and maintain a high standard of customer experience.
• Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values sharing product information, design insights, and best practices among team members to enhance collective expertise.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture emphasizes a blend of customer-facing excellence and operational efficiency, driven by technology and a passion for design. This suggests a workplace where proactive problem-solving and collaborative support are highly valued.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Building a New Client Base: As it's a new showroom, a key challenge will be establishing a strong local presence and attracting new clients in a competitive market.
• Balancing Design Consultation with Sales Targets: Effectively managing client expectations and design needs while driving sales and meeting performance metrics requires strong organizational and sales skills.
• Staying Current with Product Lines: The tile industry has diverse and evolving product offerings; continuous learning is crucial to maintain expertise.
• Adapting to Retail Hours: The requirement for flexible weekend and evening work can be a challenge for work-life balance.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product and Design Training: Access to TileBar's extensive product catalog and ongoing training on design trends, materials, and applications.
• Sales and Customer Service Skill Enhancement: Opportunities to hone consultative selling techniques, client management, and customer retention strategies.
• Exposure to Operations: Gaining insights into sales operations, order fulfillment, and showroom management can provide a foundation for future operational roles.
• Career Advancement: Potential to move into more senior sales positions, showroom management, or specialized roles within the company's broader operational structure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to develop expertise in a niche industry and hone critical sales and operational skills, with clear pathways for career progression within a growing organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Sales Strategy: "How would you approach building a client base for a new showroom in Raleigh?" "Describe your process for consultative selling when a client is unsure of their design direction."
• Customer Service Excellence: "How do you ensure a positive customer experience, even when dealing with challenging situations or product limitations?" "What steps do you take to build long-term relationships with clients?"
• Operational Best Practices: "How do you manage your time and prioritize tasks when handling multiple client consultations and administrative duties?" "Describe your experience with CRM systems and how they aid sales operations."
• Product Knowledge & Design: "How would you educate a client on the differences between various tile materials (e.g., porcelain vs. ceramic, natural stone)?" "Walk me through how you would create a design board for a client's kitchen renovation."

Company & Culture Questions:

• TileBar's Brand: "What attracts you to TileBar's modern, technology-driven approach in the tile industry?" "How do you see yourself representing our brand values as a Design Consultant?"
• Team Collaboration: "Describe a time you collaborated with colleagues to achieve a common goal or resolve a customer issue."
• Performance Measurement: "How do you track your own sales performance and identify areas for improvement?"

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling Approach: Frame your portfolio items as stories that highlight your impact. For instance, a client success story should detail the challenge, your solution, and the positive outcome.
• Quantify Achievements: Use numbers whenever possible to demonstrate your success in sales, customer satisfaction, or efficiency improvements.
• Showcase Design Process: Clearly present your design boards or material selections, explaining your rationale for each choice and how it aligns with client needs.
• Highlight Operational Acumen: Be prepared to discuss your experience with CRM, order management, and maintaining organized client files, demonstrating your ability to support operational workflows.
• Concise and Focused: Present only your most relevant and impactful work, ensuring clarity and direct relevance to the Design Consultant role at TileBar.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong sales aptitude, exceptional customer service, an understanding of design principles, and an ability to manage sales processes effectively, reflecting the operational demands of the role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Dayforce portal.
• Tailor your Resume: Highlight sales achievements, customer service experience, design consultation skills, and any CRM or order management responsibilities. Quantify your successes with specific metrics where possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather examples of client consultations, design boards, or any projects that showcase your ability to translate client needs into successful outcomes. Focus on demonstrating your sales process and customer relationship management skills.
• Research TileBar: Familiarize yourself with TileBar's product offerings, showroom concept, and company values. Understand their emphasis on technology and customer experience.
• Practice Interview Scenarios: Prepare for questions related to sales techniques, customer engagement, problem-solving, and showroom operations. Be ready to articulate your experience with CRM systems and sales processes.

⚠️ 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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