Trade Design Account Executive

Ernesta; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Ernesta in Chicago seeks an experienced Retail Trade Account Executive to grow our local trade business by partnering with interior designers, architects, and other design professionals. You will own key accounts, develop new relationships, and spend 20–30% of your time in the trade community through visits, events, and networking.

You’ll work with the Showroom Leader and Design Assistants to deliver a best-in-class Ernesta experience from first introduction to project completion, balancing

Qualifications

• 1–2+ years of relevant experience in interior design, home furnishings, architecture and design sales, trade sales, account management or related field.
• Demonstrated ability to build strong professional relationships and develop trust with clients over time.
• Passion for interior design, home décor, architecture, and the design community.
• Entrepreneurial and self-motivated with drive to proactively create new business opportunities.
• Highly organized with strong time management and disciplined follow-through.
• Willingness to travel locally for trade meetings, office visits, and events.
• Flexible retail schedule including evenings, weekends, or events as needed.

Responsibilities

• Build and grow Ernesta’s local trade business by developing long-term relationships with interior designers, architects, and other trade partners.
• Own a portfolio of trade accounts and drive repeat projects, retention, and revenue growth.
• Identify, prospect, and acquire new trade accounts within the local design community.
• Activate new trade accounts by understanding their business and offering Ernesta’s products and services.
• Spend 20–30% of time externally meeting the trade community through visits, events, and networking.
• Provide an elevated, consultative sales experience with tailored solutions.

Skills

Interior design sales

Account management

Relationship building

Communication skills

Education

BA or related creative field

Tools

CRM software

Design tools

Spatial planning tools

Job description

Ernesta in Chicago seeks an experienced Retail Trade Account Executive to grow our local trade business by partnering with interior designers, architects, and other design professionals. You will own key accounts, develop new relationships, and spend 20–30% of your time in the trade community through visits, events, and networking.

You’ll work with the Showroom Leader and Design Assistants to deliver a best-in-class Ernesta experience from first introduction to project completion, balancing