Design Strategist (Federal Government & Healthcare)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Strategist (Federal Government & Healthcare)

Company: Kimball International

Location: Jasper, Indiana, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Sales Operations / Go-To-Market Strategy / Design Operations

Date Posted: November 5, 2025

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: On-site (with remote flexibility for candidates in Midwest/Eastern US)

🚀 Role Summary

• Partner closely with Sales and Marketing teams to develop and implement interior design and specification strategies that directly support sales growth objectives within key strategic accounts, including Federal Government and Healthcare sectors.

• Drive GTM strategy by translating client-specific standards and complex furniture guidelines (GSA, Healthcare) into actionable design solutions that enhance product adoption and sales conversion.

• Act as a primary design consultant and subject matter expert, providing consultative support to end-users, dealer partners, and A&D (Architectural & Design) firms through a combination of virtual and in-person client engagements.

• Manage the end-to-end design process for large-scale projects, ensuring accuracy, alignment across internal and external stakeholders, and adherence to tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at the intersection of Sales Operations, Design Operations, and GTM Strategy. While the title is "Design Strategist," the core responsibilities heavily lean into supporting sales initiatives, managing client relationships from a design perspective, and ensuring operational efficiency in the specification and design process for key vertical markets. The emphasis on GSA and Healthcare guidelines indicates a need for deep domain knowledge within these specific government and healthcare procurement frameworks, which is a critical component of GTM strategy in these sectors.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Provide comprehensive interior design and specification support to the sales team, directly contributing to increased product sales and revenue generation within targeted accounts.

• Attend and actively participate in client meetings, strategic account presentations, mock-up reviews, and showroom tours, both virtually and in person, to showcase Kimball International's capabilities and build strong client relationships.

• Develop and distribute essential design assets, such as Revit symbols and product typicals, to A&D firms and internal teams to facilitate project integration and maintain a robust digital library for website and specification purposes.

• Lead co-creation sessions and live design demonstrations, employing a design thinking mindset to efficiently develop innovative and effective design solutions that meet client needs and showcase product versatility.

• Coach sales teams, dealer partners, and external specifiers on product integration, application, and technical capabilities to ensure accurate and comprehensive specification of Kimball International's full product portfolio.

• Identify, document, and communicate best practices, key learnings, and effective strategies for product application, positioning, and new product rollout to the broader Design Strategist team and relevant stakeholders.

• Offer specialized training support to dealers, complementing Kimball University offerings, focusing on product knowledge, specification clarity, effective use of CET (Configura) and Elevate software, and adoption of new technologies.

• Generate high-quality renderings and visual presentations to effectively communicate design concepts, product solutions, and project outcomes to clients and internal teams.

• Actively participate in industry events and trade shows such as NeoCon and Healthcare Design, representing Kimball International and contributing to brand visibility and lead generation efforts.

• Serve as a key member of the CET Beta test team, providing critical feedback and testing for new software features and enhancements to drive continuous improvement in specification tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of direct client-facing sales support, strategic design application, and operational enablement through training and asset creation. The emphasis on "co-creation sessions," "design thinking mindset," and acting as a "consultative role" points towards a proactive, solutions-oriented approach rather than purely order-taking. This requires a deep understanding of the sales funnel and how design strategy directly impacts conversion rates.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience within the Commercial Furniture Industry, demonstrating a strong understanding of market dynamics, product lifecycles, and customer needs.

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience working with GSA (General Services Administration), Federal Health, and/or Healthcare Furniture Guidelines, crucial for navigating procurement processes and compliance in these key sectors.

Required Skills:

• Configura CET Expertise: Proficient in using CET for complex space planning, specification, and rendering, with a strong ability to coach others on its adoption and effective use.

• Product Portfolio Knowledge: In-depth understanding of the entire Kimball International product portfolio, including their applications, technical capabilities, and integration potential into comprehensive design solutions.

• Sales & GTM Support: Ability to effectively support sales teams by translating client needs into design solutions that drive product sales and contribute to Go-To-Market strategies for specific verticals.

• Client Consultation: Proven ability to engage in a consultative approach with end-users, dealer partners, and A&D firms, effectively understanding needs and proposing tailored design solutions.

• Project Management Fundamentals: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple large-scale design projects simultaneously, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery under tight deadlines.

Preferred Skills:

• 3D Design Software Proficiency: Knowledge of AutoCAD, 3D Max, Revit, and SketchUp, enhancing the ability to create detailed designs, collaborate with A&D firms, and integrate with BIM workflows.

• Industry Certifications: NCIDQ (National Council for Interior Design Qualification), LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design), or EDAC (Evidence-Based Design Accreditation and Certification) certifications, demonstrating advanced expertise and commitment to professional standards.

• Space Planning & Codes: Solid understanding of interior design space planning principles and relevant building codes to ensure compliant and functional designs.

• Rendering Capabilities: Ability to produce high-quality renderings to effectively communicate design concepts and proposals.

• Federal & Healthcare Procurement: Deep familiarity with the nuances of GSA schedules, government procurement processes, and healthcare facility design requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on specific software (CET, Revit) and industry guidelines (GSA, Healthcare) is critical. For candidates, highlighting experience with these tools and demonstrating how they've applied GSA/Healthcare knowledge to drive sales or solve client problems in past roles will be key. Experience with Revit is particularly important for A&D collaboration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case Studies of GSA/Healthcare Projects: Showcase at least 2-3 detailed case studies of successful projects within the Federal Government or Healthcare sectors, highlighting your specific contributions to the design strategy, specification process, and sales outcomes.

• Demonstration of CET Proficiency: Include examples of complex specifications created in CET, such as multi-product typicals, space plans, and renderings that illustrate efficient workflow and problem-solving.

• Workflow Optimization Examples: Provide documentation or descriptions of processes you've improved or implemented, focusing on efficiency gains in specification, client communication, or asset management within a design context.

• Client Presentation Materials: Showcase sample client presentations, renderings, or proposals that demonstrate your ability to articulate design solutions, manage scope, and influence stakeholders effectively.

Process Documentation:

• Specification Workflow Design: Evidence of designing or refining specification workflows to ensure accuracy, reduce errors, and improve turnaround times, particularly for large or complex projects.

• Training Material Development: Examples of training materials created for colleagues, dealers, or clients on product specifications, software usage (e.g., CET, Elevate), or design best practices.

• Best Practice Documentation: Records of identifying and documenting best practices for product application, positioning, or new product integration within the sales and design process.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, the portfolio should emphasize not just design aesthetics but also the operational efficiency and sales enablement aspects of design strategy. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their case studies, detailing the process from initial client engagement to final specification, highlighting problem-solving and collaboration.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401(k)) with potential company match, supporting long-term financial planning.

• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation days, sick leave, and holidays, promoting work-life balance.

• Professional development opportunities, including training on new technologies, industry conferences (e.g., NeoCon, Healthcare Design), and potential for certifications (LEED, NCIDQ).

• Employee assistance program (EAP) offering confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time workweek, typically 40 hours. While the role is primarily on-site in Jasper, Indiana, flexibility may be offered for candidates located in the Midwest or Eastern US, allowing for remote work and travel as needed for client engagements. Expectations for "live design" and co-creation sessions suggest a need for responsiveness during core business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on market research for similar roles in the Midwest region, factoring in the specified experience level, specialized industry knowledge (Federal/Healthcare/GSA), and technical skills (CET). The benefits listed are standard for a company of Kimball International's presumed size and industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Kimball International operates within the Furniture industry, specifically focusing on contract furniture solutions for commercial, healthcare, and government sectors. This industry is characterized by product innovation, design aesthetics, sales channel management, and a strong emphasis on client relationships and project execution.

Company Size: Kimball International is a well-established company, likely falling into the Mid-to-Large Enterprise category. This size typically implies structured processes, dedicated departments, and opportunities for specialization within roles, while still offering a degree of visibility and impact for individual contributors.

Founded: Kimball International was founded in 1970. This long history suggests a stable company with a deep understanding of its market, established client relationships, and a proven track record in the contract furniture sector. This longevity often translates to a culture that values experience, loyalty, and continuous improvement.

Team Structure:

• Design Operations Focus: The Design Strategist is likely part of a broader design or sales support team. This team may include other Design Strategists, Specification Specialists, CAD/Revit Technicians, and potentially reporting to a Director of Design Operations, Sales Operations, or a Senior Sales Leader.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with Sales teams (field sales, account managers), Marketing (product launches, collateral), Product Development, Dealer Networks, and potentially A&D firm representatives.

• Reporting Hierarchy: The role will likely report to a manager who oversees design strategy, sales support, or a specific vertical market segment, with clear lines of communication to sales leadership.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: While design-focused, decisions will be informed by sales data, market trends, and client requirements, leaning towards a data-driven approach to GTM strategy.

• Process Optimization: A strong emphasis on refining specification processes, improving tool adoption (CET), and creating efficient workflows to support sales efforts.

• Consultative Sales Enablement: The core methodology revolves around enabling the sales force and dealer network through expert design consultation, technical support, and effective product positioning.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's founding date and industry position suggest a mature, stable organization with a strong emphasis on product quality and customer service. The "Design Strategist" title, combined with the mention of "sales growth," "Federal," and "Healthcare," points to a role that is integral to the Go-To-Market strategy for these specific, highly regulated, and detail-oriented client segments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as an Experienced Professional or Senior Individual Contributor. It requires a significant depth of specialized knowledge in commercial furniture, GSA/Healthcare guidelines, and advanced specification software (CET). It's a role that leverages expertise to directly influence sales outcomes and operational efficiency.

Reporting Structure: Typically, a Design Strategist would report to a manager responsible for Sales Support, Design Operations, or a specific Vertical Market Sales team. This structure allows for focused mentorship and alignment with broader sales and business objectives. Interfacing with senior sales leadership and A&D firms is also a key aspect of this role's network.

Operations Impact: The Design Strategist has a direct impact on revenue through effective sales enablement, accurate specifications, and strong client relationships. By translating complex client needs and regulatory requirements into actionable design solutions, this role helps close deals, ensures customer satisfaction, and reinforces Kimball International's position as a trusted partner in the Federal and Healthcare markets. Their work contributes to pipeline health, conversion rates, and client retention by ensuring the right products are specified correctly and efficiently.

Growth Opportunities:

• Vertical Specialization: Deepen expertise in Federal Government or Healthcare design and procurement, potentially leading to a Senior Design Strategist or Vertical Market Specialist role.

• Team Leadership: Progress into a team lead or management position within the Design Operations or Sales Support function, overseeing a team of Design Strategists and specialists.

• Sales Strategy Development: Transition into roles focused on broader GTM strategy, sales enablement, or market analysis, leveraging the deep understanding of client needs and industry-specific challenges gained in this position.

• Product Development Input: Provide expert feedback to product development teams based on real-world application challenges and client requirements, influencing future product design and innovation.

• Advanced Certifications: Pursue and maintain advanced certifications like LEED AP or EDAC, becoming a recognized expert in sustainable or evidence-based design within the industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path here is heavily influenced by the candidate's ability to demonstrate not just design skills but also strategic thinking, consultative sales enablement, and operational process improvement. Success in this role can lead to leadership opportunities within sales support, GTM strategy, or specialized vertical market management.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily On-site in Jasper, Indiana. This suggests a traditional office environment where collaboration, access to physical resources (samples, showrooms), and direct team interaction are prioritized. However, the explicit mention of remote flexibility for Midwest/Eastern US candidates indicates a hybrid or flexible approach is possible, likely requiring regular travel for in-person client meetings and team events.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Jasper, Indiana. For candidates outside the immediate Jasper area but within the Midwest or Eastern US, remote work is an option, but it implies a need to travel to Jasper for key meetings or team gatherings, and significant travel to client sites (Federal and Healthcare facilities, dealer showrooms, A&D offices).

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The office likely serves as a hub for design collaboration, team meetings, and access to shared resources. Expect a dynamic environment where Design Strategists work alongside sales and marketing professionals.

• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to high-performance workstations, design software (CET, AutoCAD, Revit), rendering tools, and communication platforms will be standard. The company's investment in technology for specification and visualization is key.

• Client Engagement Focus: The workspace will support both individual focused work (e.g., detailed specifications, renderings) and collaborative sessions (e.g., co-creation, client presentations, team problem-solving).

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule will be approximately 40 hours per week during core business hours. However, given the client-facing nature of the role and the need to support sales efforts, occasional flexibility may be required to accommodate client meeting schedules, project deadlines, or industry events. This could involve early mornings, late afternoons, or occasional weekend work during peak periods or for specific events.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "on-site" designation with remote flexibility for specific regions is a critical detail. Candidates should clarify expectations around travel frequency, required in-office days if any, and the company's approach to hybrid work models for those not located in Jasper.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or hiring manager will typically conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience alignment, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your experience with commercial furniture, GSA/Healthcare guidelines, and CET.

• Technical Assessment/Portfolio Review: A key stage will involve a deep dive into your portfolio. This may include a presentation of 1-2 case studies demonstrating your design strategy, problem-solving abilities, and impact on sales or project success, particularly within Federal or Healthcare contexts. Expect technical questions about CET, Revit, and GSA/Healthcare standards.

• Behavioral & Situational Interviews: Interviews with the hiring manager and potential team members will focus on behavioral questions (e.g., "Tell me about a time you handled a difficult client," "How do you manage competing priorities?") and situational questions (e.g., "How would you approach designing for a specific healthcare facility requirement?").

• Final Round: This may involve interviews with senior leadership to assess strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall alignment with Kimball International's GTM objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Focus on Impact & Process: For each case study, clearly articulate the client's challenge, your strategic design approach, the specific tools and processes used (especially CET), and the measurable outcomes (e.g., sales closed, client satisfaction, compliance achieved).

• Highlight GSA/Healthcare Expertise: Explicitly showcase how your understanding of Federal Government and Healthcare guidelines influenced your design decisions and ensured compliance.

• Demonstrate CET Mastery: Be ready to discuss your CET workflow, show examples of complex specifications, and explain how you leverage its features for efficiency and client presentations.

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to quantify your contributions (e.g., "Increased specification accuracy by 15%," "Supported sales team in closing $X million in deals for Y project").

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize aspects of your experience that directly align with supporting sales growth, consultative selling, and working within the specified vertical markets.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario Challenge: You might be given a design brief for a Federal or Healthcare project and asked to outline your approach, key considerations, and potential product solutions. Focus on process, strategy, and how you'd engage stakeholders.

• CET Proficiency Test: A practical exercise in CET might be administered to assess your ability to quickly create a specification or rendering based on given requirements.

• Presentation Skills: Practice presenting your portfolio and case studies concisely and engagingly, anticipating questions about your process, decisions, and results.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should treat its preparation as a critical component of their application strategy, focusing on demonstrating tangible impact and specialized knowledge in Federal/Healthcare and CET.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Configura CET (Configura Exploded Tool): Essential for space planning, specification, rendering, and generating Bills of Materials (BOMs). Proficiency is a core requirement, and the ability to train others is a significant advantage.

• Configura Elevate: Likely used for customer-facing presentations and proposal generation, integrating with CET specifications.

• Microsoft Office Suite:

  • PowerPoint: Crucial for creating client presentations, mock-up reviews, and internal strategy discussions.
  • Excel: Used for data analysis, tracking project details, and potentially managing specifications or client requirements.
  • Word: For documentation, proposals, and general communication.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Internal CRM (e.g., Salesforce): While not explicitly mentioned, CRM systems are typically used for sales pipeline management, customer data, and tracking sales activities. Understanding how design specifications integrate with CRM data would be beneficial.

• Reporting Dashboards: Potential use of internal dashboards for tracking sales performance, project pipelines, or specification volumes.

CRM & Automation:

• Revit: Preferred for collaboration with A&D firms, enabling BIM (Building Information Modeling) workflows and seamless integration into architectural project plans.

• AutoCAD: Standard for architectural drawings and detailed design work; knowledge is preferred for broader compatibility.

• 3D Max & SketchUp: Useful for conceptual design visualization and creating compelling renderings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of CET as a primary tool, alongside preferred software like Revit and AutoCAD, highlights the technical demands of the role. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their proficiency and experience with these specific platforms, especially how they are used to support sales and streamline the specification process.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations, particularly within the demanding Federal and Healthcare sectors, is paramount.

• Excellence in Execution: A drive for accuracy, efficiency, and quality in all design and specification work, ensuring that client needs are met precisely and on time.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong belief in working together across departments (Sales, Marketing, Design) and with external partners (Dealers, A&D) to achieve shared goals and drive sales growth.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: An openness to new ideas, technologies (like CET Beta testing), and methodologies to enhance design solutions, streamline processes, and stay ahead of market trends.

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high ethical standards in all interactions, particularly when dealing with government contracts and sensitive healthcare environments.

Collaboration Style:

• Consultative Partnerships: The team fosters a collaborative environment where individuals act as consultants, proactively engaging with stakeholders to understand needs, offer solutions, and build trust.

• Shared Knowledge & Best Practices: There's an emphasis on sharing expertise, especially regarding product application, specification techniques, and GSA/Healthcare guidelines, to elevate the entire team's capabilities.

• Cross-Functional Synergy: The culture encourages strong working relationships with sales and marketing, ensuring that design efforts are tightly aligned with GTM strategies and sales objectives.

• Feedback-Driven Improvement: An open-door policy for feedback, both giving and receiving, to refine processes, improve designs, and enhance overall team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "values" and "collaboration style" sections are inferred from the job description's emphasis on partnership, consultation, and cross-functional support. Kimball International likely promotes a culture that balances individual expertise with strong team synergy to drive business results.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating Complex Procurement: The primary challenge lies in mastering and consistently applying the intricate GSA and Healthcare furniture guidelines, which are subject to frequent updates and specific interpretations.

• Balancing Multiple Large-Scale Projects: Effectively managing competing demands from various strategic accounts, each with unique requirements and deadlines, requires exceptional organizational and prioritization skills.

• Bridging Design & Sales Objectives: Ensuring that creative design solutions are also commercially viable and directly contribute to sales targets requires a keen understanding of both design principles and business outcomes.

• Adapting to Evolving Technology: Staying current with advancements in specification software (CET), design tools (Revit), and visualization technologies to maintain a competitive edge and offer cutting-edge solutions.

• Geographic Distribution: For candidates not based in Jasper, managing remote collaboration effectively while also undertaking necessary travel for client engagements presents a logistical challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Specialized Vertical Market Training: Deep dive into the nuances of Federal procurement processes, healthcare facility design standards (e.g., ADA, infection control), and specific agency requirements.

• Advanced CET & Design Software Training: Opportunities to gain expertise in advanced features of CET, Revit, and other design visualization tools, potentially leading to certifications.

• Industry Event Participation: Attending key industry events like NeoCon and Healthcare Design provides exposure to new products, trends, and networking opportunities.

• Mentorship & Coaching: Learning from experienced sales leaders, senior design strategists, and product experts within Kimball International to develop strategic thinking and consultative skills.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining a deeper understanding of sales strategies, marketing initiatives, and product development processes through close collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are directly derived from the role's responsibilities and industry context. The growth opportunities are framed around enhancing the specialized skills and knowledge required for success in the Federal and Healthcare sectors, as well as advancing within the company's operational and sales support structure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a design strategy for a large Federal Government or Healthcare client. How do you ensure compliance with specific guidelines like GSA or HIPAA?" (Focus on structured approach, research, stakeholder engagement, and compliance checks).

• "How do you balance creative design aspirations with the need for cost efficiency and adherence to strict procurement standards in your specifications?" (Highlight problem-solving, value engineering, and consultative negotiation).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of Kimball International, what do you see as our key strengths in the Federal and Healthcare markets, and how can design strategy best support them?" (Show research on company, products, and market position; link design to GTM).

• "How do you approach collaboration with A&D firms, especially when they have established preferences or specific software requirements like Revit?" (Discuss partnership, technical integration, and communication).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear story arc: Problem/Objective -> Your Strategy/Solution -> Tools/Process Used -> Results/Impact.

• Quantify & Qualify: Back up your claims with data (metrics, sales figures) and specific examples of your contributions.

• Highlight GSA/Healthcare Expertise: Explicitly explain how your knowledge of these sectors shaped your design choices and specification process.

• Demonstrate CET Mastery: Be prepared to discuss your CET workflow, show examples of your work within the software, and explain how you leverage it for efficiency and client presentations.

• Be Ready for Technical Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific CET features, Revit integration, or how you handle common specification challenges.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just design acumen but also operational efficiency, sales enablement capabilities, and a deep understanding of the unique requirements of the Federal and Healthcare markets.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Strategist position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Kimball International careers portal.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your strongest case studies that specifically highlight your experience in commercial furniture design, with a strong emphasis on Federal Government and Healthcare projects. Ensure these case studies clearly demonstrate your GSA/Healthcare guideline knowledge and your impact on sales or project success.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to mirror the keywords and responsibilities outlined in this job description. Explicitly list your experience with Configura CET, GSA/Healthcare guidelines, Revit, and other relevant software. Quantify your achievements whenever possible.

• Prepare Your Presentation: Practice presenting your portfolio case studies concisely and engagingly. Focus on articulating your design strategy, the processes you employed (especially CET workflows), and the measurable outcomes achieved. Be ready to answer technical and behavioral questions.

• Research Kimball International: Thoroughly research Kimball International's product lines, their market position in Federal and Healthcare, and their company values. Understand how your role contributes to their overall Go-To-Market strategy and sales objectives.

⚠️ 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.