Ernesta
Retail Trade Account Executive (full-time)
Mill Valley, CA. Posted 3 months ago
The role
You will build and grow Ernesta's local trade business by developing relationships with interior designers, architects, and other trade partners. You will manage a portfolio of accounts and conduct outreach through firm visits, networking, and industry events.
What you will do
- Build and grow Ernesta's local trade business through long-term relationships.
- Own a portfolio of trade accounts to drive repeat projects and revenue growth.
- Identify, prospect, and acquire new trade accounts through outreach and networking.
- Spend 20–30% of the month externally meeting with the trade community.
- Deliver product and design expertise regarding materials, construction, and styling.
- Provide a consultative sales experience by recommending tailored solutions.
- Maintain an organized account pipeline and follow-up on samples and quotes.
- Partner with Design Assistants and the Showroom Leader to support trade partners.
- Host and support showroom events.
- Track performance against revenue and account acquisition goals.
Required qualifications
- 1–2+ years of relevant experience within interior design, home furnishings, architecture and design sales, trade sales, account management, or a related design-focused industry.
- Ability to build strong professional relationships and develop trust with clients.
- Passion for interior design, home décor, architecture, and the design community.
- Entrepreneurial and self-motivated to grow a book of business.
- Commercially minded and motivated by sales and relationship-growth goals.
- Highly organized with strong time management skills.
- Comfortable prospecting and initiating new relationships.
- Confident communicating and presenting one-on-one and to groups.
- Curious and consultative with the ability to listen and recommend solutions.
- Solutions-oriented with sound judgment and high integrity.
- Ability to manage multiple accounts, projects, quotes, and samples simultaneously.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Nice to have
- Existing relationships within the local interior design, architecture, or home furnishings community.
- Experience working in a high-end or design-focused showroom environment.
- Experience managing a portfolio or book of trade, designer, or professional accounts.
- Experience with custom products, textiles, rugs, furniture, or other home furnishings.
- Experience with design tools, spatial planning, or custom measurement processes.
- BA or experience working in a creative field such as interior design, architecture, art history, or a related discipline.
About the company
Ernesta aims to bring design-focused custom rugs to homes through an enjoyable and affordable experience. The team is focused on creating beautiful and simple solutions for the global rug industry.