Design Community Representative

ROLE OVERVIEW:

The Design Community Representative is responsible for forming strong relationships within the Milwaukee area design community (architectural/interior design firms and commercial real estate developers) with the purpose of driving business by strategically promoting Forrer’s products and services. This role works closely with Forrer marketing, sales and design staff, as well as Steelcase representatives, to develop strategies to increase sales and profits, and plays a crucial role in building the Forrer brand and reputation within the A+D and CRE communities.

ESSENTIAL JOB DUTIES:

• Relationship Management: Build and maintain close relationships with key players within targeted firms (studio leaders, lead/senior designers, project leaders, etc.). Demonstrate a deep understanding of the design community workings and the issues/opportunities.
• Storytelling: Develop a deep understanding of the Forrer brand and value proposition and the ability to share that story through presentations and customized, targeted tours of our showroom based on the Power of Place/Interconnected Workplace story to design and real estate firms and their customers.
• Networking: Participate in key networking groups/associations (ASID, IIDA, IFMA, CARW, CREW, etc.), representing Forrer by actively engaging in committee activities and events.
• Customer Service: Serve as the main point of contact for design community questions, inquiries, RFP’s, etc. Deliver pleasant, responsive interactions and time-sensitive responses to all inquiries and requests.
• Strategy + Planning: Working closely with Forrer’s Director of Marketing and local Steelcase business managers, develop and implement an overall business plan, as well as an account strategy for each target firm that involves training initiatives, lunch and learns, showroom visits, Grand Rapids trips, industry events and other activities to be completed each year. Develop a bid evaluation and response strategy ("go/no go") to create guidelines for when / how we should respond.
• Design Knowledge: Support design community on projects and opportunities by responding to requests for space planning and furniture specification. Requires complete understanding and application of principals, concepts, product lines practices and profession of interior/application design.

REQUIRED SKILLS:

• Communication: Skilled in both written and verbal communication and able to connect dynamically with customers and co-workers to create great outcomes and exceed expectations. 
• Customer Service: Focused on delivering great customer experiences (internal customers, such as sales and design as well as external customers). 
• Organizational: Highly organized and focused on details. Able to manage multiple on-going activities. 
• Time Management: Fast-paced and able to prioritize and manage multiple projects, requests and deadlines.
• Drive / Work Ethic: Highly motivated, with a strong work ethic and ability to prioritize and accomplish tasks with minimal supervision. 
• Problem solving: Quick-thinker, able to apply creative solutions to solve unique problems.
• Technology: Proficient with basic computer skills including word processing, spreadsheet and email/calendaring applications. Intermediate knowledge of AutoCAD/CAP and rendering softwares (such as CET, SketchUp, etc.). Experience with Adobe Creative Suite a plus.

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

• Must have completed a 2- or 4-year degree in Interior Design or related field from an accredited institution 
• Internship and/or work experience in the office furniture, design or architecture industry

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Knowledge of systems furniture. 
• Ability to conceptualize design solutions: creative, good color sense and space planning knowledge. 
• Strong organizational skills. 
• Expert verbal and written communication skills. 
• Strong interpersonal skills / ability to communicate effectively with many personality types. 
• Ability to build relationships, good rapport and instill confidence. 
• Self-motivated, self-directed, confident self-starter willing to accept responsibility for results; committed to excellence: accuracy in work and attention to detail; Sets high goals and standards for self and others 
• Maintain a valid state driver’s license.

CULTURAL TRAITS:

• Respectful: Empathy with a balanced ego 
• Fun: Celebrate the moments 
• Authentic: We are who we are 
• Passionate: Love what you do 
• Dedicated: To each other and the customer

$40,000 - $50,000 PLUS INCENTIVES

We offer a full benefits package with a competitive salary plus commission. Forrer Business Interiors, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer functioning under an Affirmative Action Plan. All applicants are subject to appropriate pre-employment testing.

Perks of Working for Milwaukee’s Leading Furniture Dealership:

• We were recently named one of Milwaukee’s Coolest Offices by the Milwaukee Business Journal!
• Our office is outfitted with electronic height-adjustable desks so you can sit or stand while working
• We have the best, most ergonomic and incredibly comfortable chairs
• Our office is features tons of collaborative areas for brainstorming and lounge areas for relaxing or concentrative work “Work Cafe” equipped for dining, socializing or even casual meetings
• We even have a treadmill desk!