Design Associate

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• DESIGN SUPPORT
• Provide support to Designers on projects to complete assigned deliverables and presentation materials for furniture in accordance with project vision and goals. Deliverables may include but are not limited to product research, look books, budgets, and fabric/finish samples.
• Conduct product and vendor research in support of projects and requests to find appropriate furniture solutions, accessories, fabric, and finish approvals to meet specific budget, lead-time, functional and aesthetic requirements. 
• Assist with tracking and managing of critical design-related tasks as they relate to overall project schedules including testing and approval of COM applications, COM reservations, CFAs, finishes, and shop drawings.
• Liaison with Sales, Sourcing, and Designers to contribute to on-going furniture and accessory curation.
• Assist with site coordination including field measurements and existing furniture inventory documentation.
• Demonstrate proficient time management skills; effectively address competing priorities and urgent situations, making sound decisions in short timeframes with appropriate action and guidance from design mentor or project lead.
ORDER PREPARATION AND MANAGEMENT
• Perform double-check for accuracy of ancillary specifications and counts.
• Liaison with Sales/Sourcing/Design departments regarding new vendor research, documentation, and approval.
• Negotiate with vendors and suppliers for competitive pricing and discounts.
• Prepare final, approved ancillary product specifications in CAP 20/20 to be order entry ready.
• Work with vendors and internal project teams to reconcile acknowledgement discrepancies.
• Resolve discrepancies with invoicing to insure timely payment and project completion with client.
• Comply with company documentation standards, file management procedures, and use of associated technology platforms.
INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE
• Stay current with design, workplace, and product trends.
• Participate in product and professional training programs, and activities for on-going growth and development.

Skills, Knowledge, Experience Required

• AutoCAD 2018 experience required; CAP 2020 Worksheet and CET preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, Adobe Suite, Sketch-Up, and web-support applications.
• Basic understanding of building systems, building codes, electrical, and cabling.
• Familiarity with commonly used concepts, practices, and procedures within the field of Interior Design.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding graphic presentation skills.
• Strong, persuasive communicator with excellent verbal presentation skills and the ability to communicate complex design concepts to clients.
• High attention to detail and understanding of product specification and pricing structures.
• Practical working knowledge of primary furniture products sold through Insidesource.
• Adept at managing multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced work environment and self- directed to manage deadlines.
• Excellent and effective oral and written communication.
• Strong organizational, analytical, negotiation, and administrative skills
• Ability to see the big picture and integrate into day-to-day tasks and activities.
• Fluid  interpersonal  skills  to  interact  effectively  with a  wide  range  of  customers,  vendors, personnel, and departments.
• Understanding of the complexities and sophistication required to thrive in the dealer environment. 
• Interior Design background – preferred.
• Furniture product specification knowledge – preferred.
• Experience in customer service required.
• Experience with dealership business systems – preferred.