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Form of workJob Description: Design Manager
Company Overview: E&H Ace Hardware is a well-established hardware retail chain with a strong presence in the Cleveland area. We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Design Manager to join our team and lead the design efforts across our eight Northern stores, with a primary focus on our hub stores, Dunn Hardware in Richmond Heights and Rocky River.
Position: Design Manager
Responsibilities:
Goal 1: Design Strategy and Implementation
- Develop and implement a comprehensive design strategy to enhance the overall customer experience and drive sales in the design and home improvement departments.
- Collaborate with store management and the B2B team to identify design opportunities, with a focus on commercial customers in hub stores (Dunn and Rocky River).
- Foster relationships with design contractors and identify growth opportunities within the $5-$10k yearly sales range.
- Take the lead working with design customers and contractors, be available to travel to customers’ homes and consult at their location.
Goal 2: Store-wide Design Growth
- Expand design sales opportunities across all stores, starting with Independence, Bainbridge, and Westlake (the largest volume stores), followed by Avon Lake, North Olmsted, and Kamm’s (as contributing stores).
- Maintain a consistent presence in key stores for training and development of design staff.
- Facilitate cross-store shopping for Dunn/Rocky customers, contributing to organic business growth.
- Assist staff in identifying key customers and new sales leads, directing them to the Design Manager or B2B representative.
Goal 3: Training and Development
- Collaborate with the Training Manager and Store Managers to identify, train, and develop a design badge holder in each store.
- Work with store managers to enhance design product knowledge and proficiency with equipment among senior staff.
Goal 4: Equipment Maintenance
- Work with Store Managers and the District Manager to ensure proper maintenance of all design equipment by store staff.
- Act as a point person for equipment-related issues and conduct routine inspections to ensure optimal functionality at all NE OH locations.
- Respond to equipment issues and facilitate repairs as needed.
- Identify equipment needs and communicate them to the District Manager.
- Work to keep design library current and in line with current trends.
Goal 5: Product Mix Optimization
- Collaborate with Store Managers and the District Manager to craft the correct product mix at each store.
- Review the product assortment and provide recommendations to the District Manager to enhance the design business.
- Make yourself available to the Merchandising Manager for information and feedback throughout the company.
Goal 6: Vendor Relationships
- Develop and maintain strong vendor relationships with Benjamin Moore local sales reps, Wooster, etc.
- Advocate for E&H with vendors to secure the best pricing, sales opportunities, and promotional activities.
- Work with vendors to sponsor events supporting, educating, and building relationships with our best customers.
Compensation and Benefits:
- Salary: $40,000-$50,000/year plus commission
- Benefits: Health care (Full Time Team Members), dental and vision, 401k
- Paid Time Off and Holiday Pay (Full Time Team Members)
- Employee Assistance Program
- Generous Employee Discount
- Cell phone stipend ($150/Q)
- Corporate FT benefits: Group Term Life
- Mileage reimbursement
Job Requirements:
- Must have a Valid Driver’s License.
- Ability to stand, walk, and move around the store for extended periods.
- Manual dexterity for operating design equipment.
- Visual acuity for assessing product displays and design aesthetics.
- Flexibility to bend, stoop, and reach during inventory management and equipment inspections.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Minimum Experience Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in design, Business, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of experience in a design management or related role.
- Proven track record of success in driving sales and managing design teams.
- Strong knowledge of design principles, products, and equipment.
- Experience in building and maintaining vendor relationships.
