Made Home Design Consultant - Sheffield Home (N114842)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Made Home Design Consultant - Sheffield Home (N114842)

Company: Next Plc

Location: Sheffield, South Yorkshire, S9 2YL, United Kingdom

Job Type: Part time

Category: Sales Operations / GTM (Go-to-Market)

Date Posted: 22 May 2026

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

Remote Status: On-site / Hybrid (with customer home visits)

🚀 Role Summary

• This role focuses on delivering personalized interior design solutions to customers, blending in-home and virtual consultations with salesfloor support.

• It involves understanding customer needs, translating them into functional and inspiring design proposals, and managing the sales process from initial consultation to order placement.

• A key aspect is driving sales performance through excellent customer service and achieving individual targets, with an opportunity for bonus earnings.

• The position requires a proactive approach to customer engagement, ensuring a seamless and positive design consulting experience.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the job title "Made Home Design Consultant" suggests a design focus, the integration with a retail environment and sales targets firmly places this role within a Go-to-Market (GTM) or Sales Operations context, emphasizing the consultative sales process and customer journey optimization. The "Part time" nature and specific shift pattern indicate a focus on localized customer service delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct in-home or virtual consultations to understand customer lifestyle, preferences, and spatial requirements for home design projects.

• Develop creative and functional interior design proposals, including mood boards, product selections, and layout suggestions, tailored to individual customer needs and budgets.

• Clearly communicate product lead times, costs, and financing options to customers, ensuring transparency and managing expectations.

• Actively engage with customers on the sales floor, providing expert advice and driving product sales through exceptional customer service and relationship building.

• Collaborate with store teams and management to achieve individual and team sales targets, contributing to overall store performance and revenue growth.

• Maintain a high level of product knowledge across the MADE Home range, staying updated on new collections, trends, and design best practices.

• Ensure a safe and professional environment during all customer interactions, adhering to company policies and procedures for home visits and in-store service.

• Utilize CRM tools and sales systems to manage customer interactions, track leads, and process orders efficiently.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of consultative sales and direct customer engagement, common in roles that bridge sales operations and customer experience within a retail GTM strategy. The emphasis on targets and bonus potential underscores the sales-driven nature of the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a strong understanding of interior design principles, color theory, and furnishings is expected, often gained through vocational training, certifications, or practical experience.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in a customer-facing role, preferably within interior design, furniture sales, or a related consultative sales environment.

Required Skills:

• Interior Design Flair: Natural talent and demonstrable experience in creating aesthetically pleasing and functional interior designs.

• Customer Service Excellence: Proven ability to build rapport, understand customer needs, and deliver outstanding service.

• Consultative Selling: Skill in guiding customers through the design and purchasing process, effectively overcoming objections and closing sales.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, with the ability to articulate design concepts clearly and persuasively.

• Color Theory & Furnishings Knowledge: Strong understanding of color palettes, fabric types, furniture styles, and their application in interior design.

Preferred Skills:

• Virtual Collaboration Tools: Proficiency in using video conferencing and digital tools for remote client consultations.

• CRM Proficiency: Experience with customer relationship management systems for lead tracking and customer management.

• Budget Management: Ability to create and present design proposals within defined customer budgets.

• Time Management & Organization: Effective prioritization of tasks, managing multiple client engagements, and adhering to schedules.

• Sales Target Achievement: Demonstrated history of consistently meeting or exceeding sales quotas.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "2-5 years" experience level aligns with a mid-level consultant role, requiring a solid foundation in design and sales but allowing for continued professional development. The emphasis on both in-home and virtual capabilities reflects modern retail operational needs.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Case Studies: Examples of past interior design projects, showcasing a range of styles, client briefs, and problem-solving approaches. These should ideally demonstrate an understanding of how design impacts customer satisfaction and sales outcomes.

• Customer Journey Mapping: Visual representations or descriptions of how a customer moves from initial inquiry to design consultation and purchase, highlighting key touchpoints and the consultant's role.

• Sales Process Documentation: Examples of how you have managed sales pipelines, tracked leads, and closed deals, potentially including metrics on conversion rates or average order value.

• Visual Presentation Examples: Demonstrations of how you present design ideas, whether through mood boards, 3D renderings, or detailed product lists, emphasizing clarity and persuasive communication.

Process Documentation:

• Consultation Workflow: A documented process for conducting successful design consultations, from initial client brief to final proposal delivery.

• Sales Cycle Management: A clear outline of the steps involved in managing a sale, from lead qualification to post-sale follow-up, focusing on efficiency and customer retention.

• Performance Tracking: Examples of how you track personal sales performance, identify areas for improvement, and utilize data to inform your sales strategy.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a consultative sales role like this, a portfolio demonstrating the ability to translate design vision into tangible sales outcomes is crucial. This includes showcasing the process from initial customer interaction through to successful transaction, emphasizing both creative and commercial acumen.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated range: £8.03 - £12.21 per hour (National Minimum Wage/National Living Wage for age group, up to a more experienced rate).

Benefits:

• Generous Staff Discount: 25% off most NEXT, MADE, Lipsy, Gap, and Victoria's Secret products when purchased through NEXT.

• Partner Brand Discounts: 10% off most partner brands and up to 15% off Branded Beauty.

• Working Wardrobe Allowance: 60% off a generous, optional allowance to buy clothes for work (for employees with a minimum 6-week contract).

• Early Sale Access: VIP access to sale stock.

• Online Benefits Platform: Access to hot deals and exclusive offers from over 3,500 retailers.

• Staff Shop Discounts: Access to fantastic discounts at company staff shops.

• Sharesave Scheme: Opportunity to participate in a share-saving plan.

• Health & Wellbeing:

  • Digital GP and other free health and wellbeing services.
  • Discounted health plan for employees and their families.
  • Financial Wellbeing tools for saving, tracking, and enhancing financial health.
  • Wellhub: Discounted flexible monthly gym memberships, including apps and PT sessions.

• Life Assurance: Company-provided life insurance.

• Apprenticeship Opportunities: Earn, learn, and gain a qualification (England stores only).

• Direct to Work: Discounted online and instore purchases with next-day collection options.

• Support Networks: Access to network groups for empowerment and mutual support.

Working Hours: 13 hours per week, specifically Sunday 09:00 - 16:00 and Monday 09:00 - 16:00. This is a fixed part-time schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary is presented as an hourly range reflecting UK wage regulations for retail roles of this nature. The extensive list of benefits underscores Next Plc's commitment to employee well-being and financial security, which is a significant draw for candidates in the retail sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Retail (Fashion, Home Goods, Furniture)

Company Size: Large (FTSE-100 company with over 44,000 employees globally).

Founded: Next Plc was founded in 1982.

Team Structure:

• Departmental Teams: The role operates within a specific store environment, likely reporting to a Store Management team and potentially a departmental manager for home goods.

• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Consultants will collaborate with other store associates, stock teams, and potentially online fulfillment or delivery coordination teams.

• Reporting: Direct reporting to store management, with potential for oversight from regional or head office teams concerning sales performance and brand standards.

Methodology:

• Customer-Centric Approach: The company emphasizes putting the customer at the forefront of all interactions, ensuring a positive and personalized experience.

• Data-Driven Sales: While not explicitly stated for this role, Next Plc's broader operations likely leverage sales data for performance management, inventory planning, and strategic decision-making.

• Efficiency and Process Optimization: As a large retailer, there's an inherent focus on efficient store operations, inventory management, and customer service processes to maintain profitability and customer satisfaction.

Company Website: https://www.nextplc.co.uk/

📝 Enhancement Note: Next Plc's status as a FTSE-100 company signifies a robust, well-established corporate structure with standardized processes and a strong emphasis on brand consistency and customer experience across its diverse retail offerings.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is an entry-to-mid-level specialist role within the GTM and Sales Operations framework. It focuses on direct customer interaction and consultative sales execution.

Reporting Structure: Typically reports to a Store Manager or Department Manager, with potential dotted-line reporting to regional sales managers overseeing performance metrics.

Operations Impact: Directly impacts revenue through consultative sales and customer conversion. Contributes to brand perception and customer loyalty by providing expert design advice and exceptional service. Influences product adoption and sales of specific home furnishing lines.

Growth Opportunities:

• Team Leadership: Potential progression to Senior Design Consultant, Team Leader, or Department Manager roles within the retail store environment.

• Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in specific product categories or design styles within the MADE Home range.

• Cross-Departmental Moves: Potential to move into other areas of retail operations, such as visual merchandising, stock management, or customer service management, leveraging transferable skills.

• Training & Development: Access to ongoing training programs offered by Next Plc, including product knowledge, sales techniques, and customer service enhancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth path for this role is primarily within the retail management structure. The transferable skills in sales, customer management, and design consultation can also open doors to broader GTM or operations roles in other sectors, though typically requiring further specialization.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Retail store environment with dedicated design consultation spaces and sales floor areas. The role also involves significant travel to customer homes.

Office Location(s): The primary work location is the NEXT Meadowhall Home store in Sheffield. Home visits will extend to the surrounding Sheffield and South Yorkshire region.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Sales Floor: Working alongside other retail associates, contributing to a team-oriented sales and customer service environment.

• Dedicated Consultation Space: Utilizing designated areas within the store for client meetings, which may include samples, swatches, and digital display tools.

• Customer Homes: Conducting consultations in customers' residences, requiring adaptability to various home environments and a professional demeanor.

• Technology & Tools: Access to store-based POS systems, potentially design software or digital presentation tools, and company-provided communication devices.

Work Schedule: Fixed part-time schedule of 13 hours per week, specifically Sunday (09:00-16:00) and Monday (09:00-16:00). This requires flexibility for weekend work and a consistent Monday presence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the role, combining in-store duties with client home visits, requires excellent time management and adaptability. The fixed, albeit limited, hours suggest a focus on specific peak customer interaction times.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Online Assessment: Candidates must first complete a "Working with Numbers Assessment" and a "Retail Scenarios Assessment." Successful completion is a prerequisite for further consideration.

• Application Review: The in-store recruitment team will review successfully completed online assessments, prioritizing candidates who best match the job criteria.

• Initial Interview: A brief chat to assess suitability, cultural fit, and basic qualifications. This may be conducted by the store's recruitment team or a department manager.

• Second Interview / Practical Assessment: This stage could involve a more in-depth discussion about design experience, sales approach, and potentially a practical exercise or presentation of design ideas. The ability to articulate a sales strategy and design rationale will be key.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Prioritize Relevant Experience: Showcase projects that best demonstrate your interior design skills, customer consultation process, and successful sales outcomes.

• Quantify Achievements: Where possible, include metrics such as sales targets met, customer satisfaction scores, or average order values achieved.

• Demonstrate Process: Clearly outline your approach to client consultations, from initial needs assessment to final proposal and order placement.

• Visual Appeal: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, visually appealing, and easy to navigate, reflecting your design sensibilities.

• Tailor to the Role: Highlight experience with furniture, home décor, and consultative sales within a retail or similar environment.

Challenge Preparation:

• Scenario-Based Questions: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle common retail sales scenarios, such as dealing with difficult customers, overcoming price objections, or managing multiple client requests simultaneously.

• Design Problem-Solving: Practice articulating your design process for common room types or style challenges, focusing on functionality, aesthetics, and budget constraints.

• Sales Pitch Practice: Rehearse a concise sales pitch that highlights your design expertise and ability to drive sales.

📝 Enhancement Note: The mandatory online assessments are a critical first step. Candidates should treat these as a primary filter and prepare thoroughly, focusing on demonstrating numerical reasoning and understanding of retail sales dynamics.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Point of Sale (POS) Systems: For processing transactions, managing inventory, and customer data capture.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: To track customer interactions, manage leads, schedule follow-ups, and maintain client profiles. (Specific CRM not mentioned, but common in retail).

• Design Software/Tools (Potentially): Digital tools for creating mood boards, 2D/3D visualizations, or product configurators. May include specialized software or cloud-based platforms.

• Communication Platforms: Email, internal messaging systems, and potentially video conferencing tools (e.g., Zoom, Teams) for virtual consultations.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Sales Reporting Dashboards: To track personal sales performance against targets, view product sales data, and identify trends.

• Customer Data Analytics: Access to customer purchase history and preferences to inform personalized recommendations.

CRM & Automation:

• Order Management Systems: For processing and tracking customer orders from placement to delivery.

• Scheduling Tools: For managing appointment calendars for home visits and in-store consultations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in standard retail POS and CRM systems is expected. Familiarity with digital design presentation tools would be a significant advantage, reflecting the blend of in-person and virtual client engagement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Customer Focus: A paramount value, emphasizing understanding and exceeding customer expectations through personalized service and design expertise.

• Integrity and Trust: Upholding ethical sales practices and building long-term customer relationships based on honesty and reliability.

• Teamwork and Collaboration: Working effectively with colleagues to achieve store objectives and provide a seamless customer experience.

• Passion for Design: A genuine enthusiasm for interior design, home styling, and helping customers create their ideal living spaces.

• Proactivity and Initiative: Taking ownership of tasks, seeking opportunities to improve customer interactions, and driving sales performance.

Collaboration Style:

• Service-Oriented: A collaborative environment where team members support each other to ensure customers receive excellent service, whether on the sales floor, during consultations, or with behind-the-scenes support.

• Goal-Driven: A shared focus on achieving sales targets and contributing to the overall success of the store and the MADE Home brand.

• Feedback Culture: Openness to providing and receiving constructive feedback to enhance individual performance and team effectiveness.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture likely emphasizes a blend of sales drive and customer care, with a strong appreciation for design aesthetics and a collaborative approach to achieving business objectives within a retail setting.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Balancing Design Creativity with Sales Targets: Effectively translating personal design vision into proposals that meet customer needs and budget while also driving profitable sales.

• Managing Diverse Client Expectations: Catering to a wide range of customer tastes, budgets, and levels of design knowledge.

• Time Management: Juggling in-store responsibilities, customer home visits, virtual consultations, and administrative tasks within a part-time schedule.

• Geographic Reach: Covering a specific territory for home visits, requiring efficient travel planning and time allocation.

• Competition: Differentiating the offering and service from other home furnishing retailers and online design services.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Product & Design Training: Continuous learning about new MADE Home products, materials, trends, and design techniques.

• Sales & Negotiation Skills: Development in consultative selling, objection handling, and closing techniques.

• Customer Service Excellence: Training on advanced customer relationship management and conflict resolution.

• Digital Tools Proficiency: Upskilling in virtual consultation platforms and digital design visualization tools.

• Potential for Retail Management: Opportunities to develop leadership skills for advancement into store management roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary challenges involve the inherent duality of creative consultation and commercial sales execution, common in roles bridging design and GTM. The growth opportunities are well-defined within retail operations and sales leadership.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you helped a customer transform their space with design advice. What was the outcome?" (Focus on process, customer benefit, and any sales impact).

• "How do you balance a customer's aesthetic preferences with their budget constraints?" (Demonstrate problem-solving and creative compromise).

• "Walk me through your process for conducting a virtual home design consultation." (Highlight technical proficiency and client engagement strategies).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about MADE Home and Next Plc's approach to home furnishings?" (Research their brand, values, and product lines).

• "How do you ensure a positive customer experience, even when facing challenging situations?" (Provide examples of your customer service approach).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Showcase Diversity: Present a range of projects demonstrating different styles, room types, and client briefs.

• Tell a Story: For each project, explain the client's initial needs, your design solution, the challenges faced, and the successful outcome (including any sales impact).

• Highlight Process: Detail your steps from initial consultation to final implementation or purchase.

• Quantify Results: If possible, include data on customer satisfaction, sales conversion rates, or average order value.

• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, problem-solving approach, and how you handle client feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of both design principles and sales effectiveness. The online assessments are a critical hurdle, so candidates should practice numerical reasoning and scenario-based problem-solving pertinent to retail.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Oracle Cloud portal.

• Prepare for Online Assessments: Immediately after applying, focus on completing the "Working with Numbers Assessment" and "Retail Scenarios Assessment" thoroughly. These are mandatory filters.

• Curate Your Portfolio: Gather examples of past design projects, focusing on those that showcase your consultative sales process, budget management, and ability to drive customer satisfaction and sales. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Research Next Plc & MADE Home: Understand the company's brand, values, product offerings, and target customer. Familiarize yourself with their approach to interior design and retail.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare for common interview questions related to customer service, sales techniques, design consultation, and problem-solving, using your portfolio and research to inform your answers.

⚠️ 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. The mandatory online assessments are a critical first step and should be prioritized.