Design Consultant (On-site in Jacksonville, FL)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Consultant
Company: Gabriella White (Home of Gabby and Summer Classics)
Location: Jacksonville, FL, US
Job Type: Full Time
Category: Sales / Retail / Design
Date Posted: 2025-11-06
Experience Level: 0-2 Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on providing personalized design consultation and sales services within a luxury furniture showroom environment, emphasizing client relationship building and turning design visions into reality.
• The position requires a blend of sales acumen, design sensibility, and exceptional customer service to guide clients through the selection of high-end furniture and accessories for their homes.
• Success in this role is tied to achieving sales targets through a combination of in-showroom consultations and potentially in-home client visits, fostering lasting client relationships.
• The role is crucial in representing the Gabriella White brands (Gabby and Summer Classics) and their commitment to luxury, timeless style, and furnishing life's best moments.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title is "Design Consultant," the core responsibilities and requirements strongly indicate a sales-driven role within a luxury retail environment, with a significant emphasis on design consultation as a means to drive sales and client satisfaction. The "operations" aspect is primarily in managing client interactions, sales processes, and showroom presentation within the retail context.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Engage clients in consultative sales conversations to understand their design needs, lifestyle, and aesthetic preferences for interior spaces.
• Develop and present tailored design solutions using luxury furniture and accessories from Gabby and Summer Classics, creating cohesive and inspiring room designs.
• Conduct personalized in-home consultations or showroom walkthroughs to provide expert design advice and space planning recommendations.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with clients by delivering exceptional, personalized service throughout the sales cycle and beyond.
• Achieve and exceed individual sales goals and contribute to overall showroom performance targets through effective client engagement and closing techniques.
• Stay current with product knowledge, design trends, and the brand stories of Gabby and Summer Classics to effectively educate and inspire clients.
• Collaborate with showroom management and team members to maintain an aesthetically pleasing and organized showroom environment that reflects the brand's luxury image.
• Utilize provided technology, including iPads and specific design software, to enhance the client experience, manage client information, and process sales orders efficiently.
• Process sales transactions accurately, manage client orders, and coordinate with internal teams for delivery and installation, ensuring a seamless customer journey.
• Actively participate in team meetings, training sessions, and company events to foster a collaborative and enthusiastic work environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities are framed to highlight the blend of design expertise and sales execution, emphasizing client relationship management and the consultative sales process typical in high-end retail.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• A background in design, business, marketing, or a related field is a significant advantage.
• While formal degrees are not explicitly required, a strong understanding of design principles and aesthetics is essential.

Experience:

• A minimum of one year of experience in high-end retail, interior design, or a related client-facing sales role is required.
• Experience selling luxury products is highly desirable.

Required Skills:

• Sales Acumen: Proven ability to engage, consult, and close sales, particularly within a luxury or high-end retail context.
• Design Sensibility: A keen eye for aesthetics, color, form, and an understanding of interior design principles and space planning.
• Client Relationship Management: Demonstrated ability to build rapport, foster trust, and cultivate long-term relationships with a discerning clientele.
• Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to articulate design concepts and product benefits clearly and persuasively.
• Problem-Solving: Creative and practical approach to resolving client design challenges and ensuring satisfaction.
• Product Knowledge: Aptitude for quickly learning and retaining detailed information about furniture, fabrics, finishes, and brand stories.
• Tech Proficiency: Comfort and ability to use Microsoft Office Suite, iPads, and learn new sales and design software systems.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work effectively within a team environment, contributing to a positive and productive showroom atmosphere.

Preferred Skills:

• Space Planning Software: Familiarity with tools such as RoomSketcher or other space planning and visualization software.
• Fabric & Material Expertise: In-depth knowledge of various fabrics, finishes, and materials used in luxury furniture.
• Luxury Retail Experience: Specific experience in selling high-end home furnishings, fashion, or other luxury goods.
• Business/Marketing Background: Understanding of sales strategies, client acquisition, and market positioning.
• Positive & Professional Demeanor: A confident, stylish, and genuinely enthusiastic approach to client interactions and problem-solving.

📝 Enhancement Note: The AI-identified experience level of "0-2" years aligns with the requirement of "at least a year of experience in design or high-end retail," indicating that candidates with some foundational experience will be considered. The emphasis is on a strong aptitude and potential rather than extensive prior tenure.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• While not explicitly stated as a formal portfolio requirement, candidates are encouraged to demonstrate their design aptitude and sales success through their application and interview.
• This may include examples of past design projects, mood boards, or descriptions of how they have helped clients achieve their design visions.
• Evidence of successful client engagement and relationship building in previous roles will be highly valued.
• Demonstrations of understanding space planning principles or the ability to visualize and articulate design solutions will be beneficial.

Process Documentation:

• The role involves following established sales processes for client consultation, order placement, and after-sales follow-up.
• Proficiency in documenting client interactions, preferences, and sales activities using company systems (e.g., CRM, iPad applications) is expected.
• Understanding and adhering to showroom operational procedures for maintaining displays and inventory accuracy will be part of the daily workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the nature of a "Design Consultant" role in retail, a formal, extensive portfolio may not be a strict requirement. However, the ability to demonstrate design skill and sales success through conversations, examples, and previous achievements is crucial. The focus is on practical application rather than a curated collection of work.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• This position is hourly plus commission, with sales bonus opportunities available.
• Based on industry standards for a Design Consultant role in Jacksonville, FL, with 0-2 years of experience and a commission structure, the estimated base hourly rate could range from $18-$25 per hour.
• Total compensation, including commission and bonuses, can vary significantly based on sales performance, but successful consultants in this sector often achieve total earnings well above the base rate, potentially reaching $50,000-$75,000+ annually.

Benefits:

• Competitive health, dental, and vision plans.
• 401(k) plan with a company match after 12 months of employment.
• Paid time off, including sick days, vacation, and holidays.
• Paid parental leave.
• Employee Assistance Program and Chaplain Services to support employee well-being.
• Generous employee product purchase discount on Gabby and Summer Classics furniture and accessories.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position.
• The role requires flexibility to work weekends regularly, as this is a common practice in retail environments, especially for client-facing roles.
• Availability for special events as needed is also expected.
• The standard working hours are typically aligned with showroom operating hours, likely 40 hours per week, with scheduling determined by management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation structures for commission-based sales roles in luxury retail in the specified location and experience level. It includes a base hourly rate plus potential commission and bonuses. Detailed benefits are provided as listed in the input data.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry:

• The company operates within the luxury furniture and home accessories industry, specifically focusing on high-end outdoor living and transitional, eclectic furniture for indoor spaces.
• Gabriella White is the parent company for the well-regarded brands Gabby and Summer Classics, known for innovation, quality, and design.
• The market context involves serving designers and design-minded consumers who value quality craftsmanship, unique style, and timeless pieces.

Company Size:

• Gabriella White is described as family-owned and operated since 1987, indicating a mid-sized to large company, likely with a significant number of employees across manufacturing, retail, and corporate functions.
• For operations professionals, this size often means a blend of established processes and potential for agility and direct impact, with opportunities to collaborate across departments.

Founded:

• Founded in 1987, the company has a long-standing history and established reputation in the luxury furniture market.
• This longevity suggests stability, a deep understanding of the industry, and a commitment to its core values and brands.

Team Structure:

• The role is situated within a showroom team environment, likely reporting to a Showroom Manager or Sales Manager.
• Collaboration is expected with other Design Consultants, sales associates, and potentially operations or administrative staff supporting the showroom.
• The family-owned nature may foster a more close-knit and collaborative team dynamic, emphasizing synergy and shared goals.

Methodology:

• The company's core values (Dedication, Enthusiasm, Synergy, Integrity, Goal-Oriented, Nimble - DESIGN) suggest a culture that prioritizes client satisfaction, teamwork, and driven performance.
• The focus on "furnishing life's best moments" indicates a client-centric approach centered on creating meaningful and beautiful living spaces.
• Operations within the showroom likely involve structured sales processes, visual merchandising standards, and client relationship management.

Company Website: https://workforcenow.adp.com/mascsr/default/mdf/recruitment/recruitment.html?cid=50ebad87-fc82-464e-91d1-fa1244aeb526

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description emphasizes its family-owned heritage, brand reputation (Gabby & Summer Classics), and core values (DESIGN). This context is crucial for understanding the operational culture and the types of professionals who thrive there.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level:

• This role is positioned as an entry-level to junior-level sales and design position (0-2 years experience).
• As a Design Consultant, the focus is on developing foundational sales skills, client management techniques, and gaining expertise in luxury interiors and product lines.
• It represents a crucial step for individuals aspiring to a career in interior design sales or luxury retail management.

Reporting Structure:

• The Design Consultant will report directly to the Showroom Manager or a designated Sales Manager.
• This structure provides direct mentorship and performance management, crucial for developing sales and design skills.
• Regular feedback and coaching are expected to help the consultant meet sales targets and enhance their client advisory capabilities.

Operations Impact:

• The primary operational impact of this role is direct revenue generation through sales of luxury furniture and accessories.
• By building strong client relationships and providing exceptional design services, the consultant contributes to customer loyalty and repeat business, directly impacting long-term revenue streams.
• Effective client consultation and space planning also reduce potential post-sale issues, contributing to operational efficiency in returns or customer service escalations.
• The role is instrumental in translating brand value and product appeal into tangible sales outcomes within the showroom.

Growth Opportunities:

• Sales Advancement: Progression to Senior Design Consultant, Sales Lead, or Showroom Manager roles, with increased responsibility for team leadership and sales targets.
• Design Specialization: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific design areas (e.g., outdoor living, specific collection lines) and become a subject matter expert.
• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential to move into related areas such as visual merchandising, client services management, or brand representation within the broader Gabriella White organization.
• Continuous Learning: Access to product training, design workshops, and sales methodology development provided by the company to enhance skills and stay current.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path is clearly defined within sales and showroom management, leveraging the specific skills developed as a Design Consultant. The "operations" aspect here relates to the operational mechanics of sales and client management within a retail setting.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

• The role is based in a physical, on-site luxury furniture showroom in Jacksonville, FL.
• This is a client-facing environment designed to showcase high-end products and inspire customers.

Office Location(s):

• Jacksonville, FL, 32204. This location suggests accessibility within the local Jacksonville area.

Workspace Context:

• The showroom itself is the primary workspace, featuring beautifully displayed furniture and accessories from Gabby and Summer Classics.
• The environment is expected to be visually stimulating, elegant, and conducive to relaxed yet focused client consultations.
• Access to technology such as iPads and potentially design software stations will be integral to the daily workflow.
• Collaboration with colleagues in a shared showroom space will be a key aspect of the daily work experience.

Work Schedule:

• This is a full-time, on-site position.
• Regular weekend work is a standard expectation for this role, reflecting typical retail operating hours and client availability.
• Flexibility for special events and peak selling seasons will be necessary.
• The schedule will be structured around showroom operating hours, likely totaling 40 hours per week.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description emphasizes the showroom as a "beautiful" and "inspiring" space, highlighting the visual and aesthetic nature of the work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Application Review: Resumes and any supplementary materials will be assessed for relevant experience in design, luxury retail, and sales.
• Screening Call: A brief phone or video call to discuss qualifications, interest in the role, and basic fit with the company culture and brand.
• In-Person Interview: This will likely involve meeting with the Showroom Manager or hiring team. Expect questions about design experience, sales approach, client interaction strategies, and understanding of luxury markets.
• Showroom Tour & Product Knowledge Assessment: Candidates may be asked to walk through the showroom, demonstrating their ability to identify key products and discuss their features and benefits.
• Scenario-Based Questions: You might be presented with hypothetical client scenarios to assess your problem-solving skills, design approach, and sales techniques.
• Potential "Design Challenge": While not explicitly stated, some roles might include a small design exercise or presentation based on a given brief to evaluate design thinking and presentation skills.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Show, Don't Just Tell: If you have a portfolio, ensure it visually represents your design aesthetic and any successful projects. This could include mood boards, room layouts, or photos of finished spaces you've influenced.
• Highlight Client Success: For each project or example, articulate the client's initial needs, your proposed solution, and the positive outcome (e.g., client satisfaction, successful sale, achieved aesthetic).
• Demonstrate Sales Aptitude: If your portfolio includes sales achievements, quantify them where possible (e.g., exceeded sales targets by X%, managed a portfolio of Y clients).
• Focus on Luxury and Style: Ensure any portfolio pieces align with the high-end, timeless aesthetic of Gabby and Summer Classics.
• Conciseness is Key: Be prepared to present your most impactful work efficiently, focusing on relevance to this specific role.

Challenge Preparation:

• Product Familiarity: Research Gabby and Summer Classics extensively. Understand their brand ethos, key product lines, materials, and design styles.
• Sales Scenarios: Practice handling common sales objections, consultative selling techniques, and how to close a sale effectively in a luxury retail setting.
• Design Consultation Scenarios: Prepare how you would approach a client who is unsure of their style, has a challenging space, or is working with a specific budget.
• Brand Storytelling: Be ready to articulate why clients should choose Gabby and Summer Classics over competitors, focusing on quality, design, and brand heritage.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is inferred to be typical for a retail sales and design role, focusing on practical skills, client interaction, and brand alignment. Portfolio advice is tailored to demonstrating design and sales capabilities relevant to luxury goods.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• iPad: Essential for client presentations, accessing product catalogs, space planning tools, and potentially processing sales transactions. Proficiency in tablet-based applications is expected.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Standard for basic business communication, documentation, and potentially reporting.
• Point of Sale (POS) / CRM System: Likely a proprietary or industry-standard system for managing client information, tracking sales, processing orders, and potentially managing appointments.
• Design Software (e.g., RoomSketcher): Familiarity with or ability to quickly learn space planning and visualization tools is a significant plus for creating client design proposals and layouts.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While direct analytics roles are not part of this position, consultants will likely interact with sales performance reports and dashboards to track their individual progress against targets.
• Understanding key sales metrics (e.g., conversion rates, average transaction value) will be important for self-management and performance improvement.

CRM & Automation:

• The company likely utilizes a CRM system to manage customer relationships, track leads, and record client interactions.
• Automation may be present in lead management or follow-up processes, which the consultant would leverage.
• Integration between sales systems and inventory or order management may exist, requiring seamless data flow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis is on tools that directly support client interaction, sales processes, and design visualization within the showroom environment.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Dedication: Commitment to client satisfaction, sales targets, and the success of the Gabby and Summer Classics brands.
• Enthusiasm: Bringing passion and energy to client interactions, product knowledge, and the overall showroom experience.
• Synergy: Working collaboratively with colleagues and other departments to achieve shared goals and create a cohesive client journey.
• Integrity: Upholding ethical sales practices, honesty in client dealings, and maintaining the luxury image of the brands.
• Goal-Oriented: A strong focus on achieving and exceeding individual and team sales objectives.
• Nimble: Adaptability to changing client needs, market trends, and showroom demands.

Collaboration Style:

• The team operates within a showroom setting, requiring a collaborative approach to client service, visual merchandising, and supporting colleagues.
• Open communication and a willingness to share product knowledge and sales strategies are likely encouraged.
• The family-owned nature may foster a supportive environment where team members assist each other in achieving client satisfaction and sales goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's core values (DESIGN) are directly integrated into the description of the team's operational values and expected collaboration style.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• High-End Sales Competition: Differentiating Gabby and Summer Classics in a competitive luxury furniture market and convincing discerning clients of their value.
• Client Vision Alignment: Effectively translating diverse client visions and needs into tangible design solutions using the available product lines.
• Sales Target Pressure: Consistently meeting or exceeding monthly sales and commission targets in a performance-driven environment.
• Weekend/Holiday Work: Adapting to a work schedule that regularly includes weekends and potentially holidays, which can impact work-life balance.
• Learning Curve: Quickly mastering extensive product knowledge, design principles, and company-specific sales processes and systems.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product & Brand Training: In-depth education on Gabby and Summer Classics product lines, materials, craftsmanship, and brand heritage.
• Sales Methodology Training: Development of consultative selling techniques, objection handling, and closing strategies tailored for luxury goods.
• Design Skills Enhancement: Opportunities to refine space planning abilities, color theory application, and interior design consultation skills.
• Mentorship: Guidance from experienced sales managers and senior consultants within the showroom.
• Industry Exposure: Potential to attend industry events or observe design trends relevant to luxury interiors.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are framed around the realities of luxury sales and retail, while growth opportunities focus on skill development critical for advancement in this field.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Philosophy: "How do you approach understanding a client's personal style and translating it into a cohesive design for their home?" (Prepare to discuss your process, ask clarifying questions, and use visual aids if applicable.)
• Sales Approach: "Describe a time you successfully sold a high-value item. What steps did you take, and how did you overcome any objections?" (Focus on consultative selling, understanding client needs, and demonstrating value.)
• Problem-Solving: "A client loves a specific sofa but is concerned about its durability for family use. How would you address this?" (Prepare to discuss fabric options, alternative materials, or care instructions.)
• Brand Understanding: "What do you know about Gabby and Summer Classics, and what appeals to you about our brands?" (Research the company thoroughly, focusing on their design ethos, quality, and history.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in working for Gabriella White, specifically with Gabby and Summer Classics?" (Connect your passion for design and luxury with the company's mission and values.)
• "How do you handle working weekends and busy retail periods?" (Show flexibility and a positive attitude towards the demands of the role.)
• "Describe your ideal team environment. How do you contribute to a positive team dynamic?" (Emphasize collaboration, support, and shared goals.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Curate Select Examples: Choose 2-3 projects that best showcase your design eye, problem-solving skills, and ability to work with luxury aesthetics.
• Tell a Story: For each example, clearly outline the client's initial challenge, your proposed solution, the products involved, and the positive outcome.
• Highlight Sales Impact: If possible, quantify the sales aspect of your contributions (e.g., "This project resulted in a sale of $X," or "I successfully guided the client to select a full room package").
• Visual Aids: Use high-quality images, mood boards, or renderings if available. Be prepared to use the company's showroom or iPad for mock presentations.
• Focus on Process: Explain how you arrived at your design decisions and how you engaged with the client throughout the process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview questions are tailored to assess the blend of design knowledge, sales skills, client management, and cultural fit required for this specific role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this design consultant position:

• Submit your application through the provided ADP link.
• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight experience in design, luxury retail, client consultation, and sales, using keywords from the job description (e.g., "luxury furniture," "interior design," "client relationship management," "sales consultant"). Quantify achievements where possible.
• Portfolio Preparation: If you have a design portfolio, ensure it is easily accessible (e.g., link to an online portfolio or well-organized PDF). Focus on showcasing projects that align with high-end interior design and luxury aesthetics. Be ready to discuss your design process and any sales outcomes.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Gabriella White, Gabby, and Summer Classics. Understand their brand story, product lines, design philosophy, and company values. This will be crucial for answering interview questions and demonstrating genuine interest.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers for common sales and design interview questions, focusing on the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Practice articulating your design approach and sales strategy.

⚠️ 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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