Work Preference
Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
AWARDS
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Christina R Smith
Open To Work

Christina R Smith

Murfreesboro,TN

Work Preference

Job Search Status

Open to work
Desired start date: Immediately

Desired Job Title

Showroom Manager

Work Type

Full Time

Location Preference

On-Site
Location: Murfreesboro, TN
Open to relocation: Yes

Salary Range

$75000/yr - $95000/yr

Important To Me

Company CultureWork-life balanceHealthcare benefits401k match

Summary

A highly motivated professional with extensive design, sales, and management experience. Outgoing team player with a track record of driving increased sales, improving buying experience, and elevating company profile within a target market.

Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude, authenticity, and commitment to continuous learning and growth.

Overview

35
35
years of professional experience

Work History

Owner/Designer

Hamilton Rae, LLC Interior and Kitchen Design Studio
05.2021 - 12.2024


  • Hired, trained, and managed a high-performing, cross-functional team of 5 dedicated to achieving overall company goals to streamline onboarding and increase overall KPI's.
  • Mentored staff members on best practices in customer service and sales techniques, leading to increased performance, employee satisfaction/retention, and overall positive company culture and environment.
  • Monitored each employee's individual strengths and initiated mentoring program to improve areas of weakness by goal setting, consistent training, and achievement recognition.
  • Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
  • Managed day-to-day business operations with concentration on increasing revenue, average order values (AOV), gross and net margins, customer retention, etc.
  • Managed financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, financial reporting, and tax preparation.
  • Analyzed market trends to advise on design directions that align with client expectations.
  • Conducted client consultations to assess requirements and provide tailored design solutions.
  • Collaborated with contractors and vendors to source high-quality materials and finishes.
  • Managed project timelines and budgets, ensuring timely delivery of design services.
  • Developed marketing strategies that increased client engagement and studio visibility.
  • Implemented quality control measures to ensure excellence in all design projects delivered.
  • Analyzed industry trends to inform innovative design approaches and maintain competitive edge.
  • Evaluated industry competition regularly to maintain a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
  • Developed and maintained strong relationships with clients, resulting in repeat business and referrals.
  • Increased customer satisfaction by implementing efficient business processes and providing exceptional service.
  • Consulted with customers to assess needs and propose optimal solutions.
  • Organized and attended trade shows and special events to showcase products, network with other businesses and attract new customers.
  • Fostered strong relationships with clients to boost retention rates, conducting regular feedback sessions.
  • Elevated brand awareness with targeted marketing campaigns, leveraging social media and digital platforms.
  • Identified and qualified customer needs and negotiated and closed profitable projects with high success rate.
  • Supervised creation of exciting merchandise displays to catch attention of store customers.
  • Developed innovative design concepts for residential and commercial interiors, enhancing aesthetic appeal and functionality.
  • Collaborated with clients to determine design preferences and project requirements, ensuring alignment with vision and goals.
  • Created detailed floor plans and 3D renderings using industry-standard software, improving client understanding of designs.
  • Conducted on-site consultations to assess spaces and provide tailored design recommendations based on client needs.
  • Implemented sustainable design practices by incorporating eco-friendly materials into projects, promoting environmental responsibility.
  • Managed multiple design projects simultaneously, ensuring timely delivery within budget constraints.
  • Presented creative solutions to client challenges, resulting in high levels of client satisfaction and repeat business opportunities.
  • Streamlined design processes, resulting in increased efficiency and faster project completion times.
  • Designed eye-catching promotional materials, driving increased event attendance and participation rates.
  • Created marketing materials, including brochures, flyers and product catalogs to brand standards.
  • Reviewed project requirements to plan workflows and evaluate client time and budget constraints.
  • Identified design requirements for each project.
  • Analyzed feedback from customers and staff to refine design concepts.
  • Utilized various software programs, creating 3D models of design concepts.

Area Sales Manager

Masterbrand Cabinets, LLC
07.2019 - 03.2021


  • Remote Diamond Cabinetry Sales Manager for 59 Lowe’s stores in Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, and Alabama.
  • Inherited a large territory with historically poor representation, which led to loss of customer trust.
  • Developed strategic sales plans to increase market share successfully rom 18-24% with a relative growth of 33.3% in special order cabinetry in year one.
  • Reported sales activity, generated sales quotations, and proposals and maintained customer contact database to achieve sales objectives and exceed quota.
  • Fostered a positive work environment within the sales team by encouraging open communication, teamwork, and mutual support among team members.
  • Implemented innovative strategies to increase product visibility within the assigned territory while maintaining a professional brand image.
  • Expanded market share through proper training of sales teams, effective prospecting, lead generation, and negotiation skills.
  • Collaborated with marketing department to develop targeted promotional campaigns that drove sales growth.
  • Prepared sales presentations for clients showing success and credibility of products.
  • Provided exceptional customer service to existing clients (store management and designers) through consistent communication and prompt resolution of issues or concerns raised by them.
  • Achieved revenue growth by continuously monitoring performance metrics and adjusting strategies accordingly.
  • Established strong relationships with major accounts and key decision-makers to increase sales in designated territory.
  • Helped team stay productive and focused on higher-value tasks to improve sales efficiency.
  • Mentored and trained sales representatives, enhancing team performance and customer engagement.
  • Collaborated with senior leadership to formulate long-term sales strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
  • Enhanced team performance by providing ongoing coaching, training, and mentoring to store designers, sales specialists, and store management.
  • Drove cost efficiencies across various areas including staff training, inventory control and customer acquisition by continuously optimizing processes and systems.
  • Accompanied sales reps in field for ride-alongs to teach, observe and work one-on-one.
  • Streamlined internal processes by working closely with cross-functional teams such as operations, logistics, and finance departments to ensure smooth transactions for customers.
  • Enhanced profitability by developing pipelines utilizing marketing and sales strategies.
  • Resolved problems with high-profile customers to maintain relationships and increase return customer base.
  • Achieved established KPI for company, area team and individual performance through teamwork and focus on customers.
  • Engaged in product training, demonstrations, consumer awareness, branding, and acquisition initiatives to raise awareness and revenues.
  • Collaborated with upper management to implement continuous improvements and exceed team goals.
  • Held one-on-one meetings with sales team members to identify selling hurdles and offered insight into best remedy.
  • Built relationships with customers and community to establish long-term business growth.
  • Implemented systems and procedures to increase sales.
  • Managed accounts to retain existing relationships and grow share of business.
  • Communicated product quality and market comparisons by creating sales presentations.
  • Facilitated business by implementing practical networking techniques.
  • Demonstrated products to show potential customers benefits and advantages and encourage purchases.
  • Delivered recommendations to long-term accounts to promote brand awareness to key audience.
  • Organized promotional events and interacted with community to increase sales volume.

Partner/Senior Interior Designer

Nashville Interior Design Group
08.2013 - 07.2019
  • Conducted extensive research on current design trends, materials, and sustainable practices to inform design choices.
  • Managed project timelines and budgets, ensuring adherence to client specifications and expectations.
  • Implemented efficient design processes that improved overall project delivery time and quality outcomes.
  • Designed floor plans, elevations, 3D perspective views, and material boards for review and presentation.
  • Selected and sourced materials, furniture, and accessories for aesthetically pleasing spaces.
  • Managed budgets and timelines effectively to deliver projects on schedule and within budget constraints.
  • Developed key client relationships, providing design solutions that met needs and budgets without compromising quality or design intent.
  • Participated in furniture selection and documentation of specifications.
  • Developed space planning concepts, color palette selections, and textile presentations.
  • Coordinated installations of fixtures, furniture, artwork ensuring proper placement alignment within each space according plan specifications.
  • Conducted site visits and meetings with clients to gather necessary information for successful project execution.
  • Provided exceptional customer service throughout the entire design process, ensuring timely communication with clients at all stages.
  • Revitalized underperforming spaces by implementing creative interior design strategies.
  • Assisted in resolving unforeseen design challenges, ensuring projects stayed on track without compromising quality.
  • Conducted site visits to ensure design implementations were executed according to plan, maintaining high standards of quality.
  • Worked closely with contractors and vendors to improve project coordination, completing projects on time and within budget.
  • Oversaw installation of finishes, furniture and other design elements to control final product.

Kitchen and Bath Designer

Lowe’s
07.2010 - 03.2013
  • Started in Austin, TX. June, 2010. Transferred to Portage, IN. October, 2010. Transferred to to Hendersonville, TN March 2012. Left company February 2013
  • Optimized use of space in kitchen and bath designs by incorporating creative storage solutions.
  • Maintained displays and sales tools.
  • Collaborated with clients to select the perfect materials, finishes, and fixtures for their dream spaces.
  • Developed detailed project plans for successful kitchen and bath installations, resulting in timely completion and minimal disruptions.
  • Utilized 3D rendering software to create realistic visualizations of proposed designs, aiding in client decision-making processes.
  • Consistently met or exceeded sales goals through a combination of exceptional design skills and attentive customer service.

Kitchen and Bath Designer

Kitchens Unlimited
05.2007 - 01.2009
  • Lead generation through networking, and high referral rate.
  • Designed functional and aesthetically pleasing kitchen and bath layouts to meet client specifications.
  • Collaborated with clients to understand design preferences, needs, and budget constraints.
  • Utilized CAD software to create detailed 2D and 3D renderings of designs for client approval.
  • Selected materials, fixtures, and finishes aligned with design trends and client requirements.
  • Provided expert product knowledge to guide clients in making informed purchasing decisions.
  • Coordinated with contractors and suppliers to ensure timely project execution and high-quality results.
  • Mentored junior designers on best practices in design techniques and customer engagement strategies.
  • Participated in trade shows and networking events to promote the company''s services and generate new leads for potential projects.

Kitchen and Bath Designer/Department Supervisor

The Home Depot
06.1998 - 02.2002
  • Led team training initiatives, enhancing staff performance and operational efficiency.
  • Oversaw daily operations, ensuring compliance with safety regulations and quality standards.
  • Designed customized kitchen and bath layouts to enhance functionality and aesthetic appeal.
  • Collaborated with clients to understand needs, ensuring alignment with design preferences and budget constraints.
  • Utilized CAD software to create detailed design plans and 3D renderings for client presentations.
  • Managed project timelines and coordinated with contractors to ensure timely installation of designs.
  • Conducted site visits to assess existing conditions and provide accurate measurements for design accuracy.
  • Mentored junior designers, sharing best practices in client interaction and design software usage.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing personalized kitchen and bath design solutions.
  • Conducted thorough site evaluations to identify potential challenges and incorporate necessary adjustments into project plans.
  • Delivered functional yet aesthetically pleasing designs by balancing client preferences with practical considerations such as budget constraints or architectural limitations.
  • Built strong relationships with vendors, ensuring high-quality products at competitive prices.
  • Managed multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining keen attention to detail throughout all stages of the design process.
  • Coordinated with installation teams to address any on-site issues promptly, ensuring minimal delays and maximum client satisfaction.

Store Manager

Hit or Miss
07.1994 - 03.1996
  • Hired as an Assistant Store Manager July 1994 and was promoted to Store Manager just 6 weeks later when my store manager was promoted to District Sales Manager.
  • All opening and closing procedures, unlock/lock doors, check premises for safety and cleanliness before inviting in customers, deactivation/activation of alarm system, card manual batch settlements, and float removal/sales reconciliation each night after closing. Prepared the cash float for next business day. made nightly deposits, logged daily sales and cash on hand and axed to district manager each night. made copies of all checks, made change for registers, etc.
  • Implemented sales and changed signage and displays according to corporate direction.
  • Led team to enhance customer satisfaction through effective training and service strategies.
  • Developed and implemented store policies to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations while maintaining a clean store environment.
  • Fostered a positive team culture by organizing staff meetings, encouraging feedback, and recognizing achievements.
  • Addressed customer complaints promptly, ensuring resolution and minimizing negative impact on the business.
  • Enhanced store appearance by regularly updating displays, arranging merchandise, and maintaining cleanliness.
  • Increased sales by implementing effective merchandising strategies and managing store inventory.
  • Improved customer satisfaction and reduced theft through exceptional service and quick response to inquiries.
  • Conducted regular audits of inventory levels to minimize shrinkage losses and maintain optimal stock availability.
  • Maintained strict adherence to company policies and procedures, demonstrating strong leadership skills within the team.
  • Exceeded monthly sales targets consistently by motivating staff and implementing strategic promotions.
  • Developed a loyal customer base with personalized shopping experiences and tailored recommendations. (I actually had a recipe box with index cards, on which I would write customer's wish lists, call their husbands with a total, and convince them to purchase with complimentary gift wrapping (that I purchased with my own money).
  • Managed store budget effectively, reducing expenses while maximizing profits.
  • Implemented loss prevention measures to reduce theft incidents within the store significantly.

Sales Associate, Women's Clothing

UNITS by Sandra Garrett
12.1991 - 06.1993
  • Provided exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
  • Demonstrated product knowledge to assist customers in making informed purchasing decisions.
  • Maintained sales floor organization, ensuring all merchandise was properly displayed and stocked.
  • Collaborated with team members to achieve daily sales targets and improve store performance.

Cashier, Fast Food

McDonald's Restaurant
09.1989 - 12.1991
  • Processed customer transactions efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
  • Maintained accurate cash drawer, ensuring accountability and minimizing discrepancies.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service, addressing inquiries and resolving issues promptly.
  • Trained and mentored new staff on operational procedures and best practices.
  • Cleaned when business was slower.

Education

Associate of Science - Environmental Design (Interior Design)

Ivy Tech
Valparaiso, IN
05-2011

No Degree - Business Management

University of Memphis
Memphis, TN
01.2001

No Degree - General Studies

University of Memphis
01.1996

Skills

  • Premium sales expertise
  • Project execution management
  • Service excellence
  • Sales trend analysis
  • Team development
  • Effective public speaking
  • Retail merchandising
  • Social media engagement
  • Establishing strategic relationships
  • Strategic lead acquisition
  • Microsoft Office
  • Graphic design using Canva
  • Skilled in 2020 design applications
  • Agreement formulation
  • Vendor partnership development
  • Customer service expertise
  • Operational efficiency in small businesses
  • Cultivating collaborative partnerships
  • Effective communication
  • Sales performance optimization

Timeline

Owner/Designer

Hamilton Rae, LLC Interior and Kitchen Design Studio
05.2021 - 12.2024

Area Sales Manager

Masterbrand Cabinets, LLC
07.2019 - 03.2021

Partner/Senior Interior Designer

Nashville Interior Design Group
08.2013 - 07.2019

Kitchen and Bath Designer

Lowe’s
07.2010 - 03.2013

Kitchen and Bath Designer

Kitchens Unlimited
05.2007 - 01.2009

Kitchen and Bath Designer/Department Supervisor

The Home Depot
06.1998 - 02.2002

Store Manager

Hit or Miss
07.1994 - 03.1996

Sales Associate, Women's Clothing

UNITS by Sandra Garrett
12.1991 - 06.1993

Cashier, Fast Food

McDonald's Restaurant
09.1989 - 12.1991

Associate of Science - Environmental Design (Interior Design)

Ivy Tech

No Degree - Business Management

University of Memphis

No Degree - General Studies

University of Memphis

AWARDS

HOUZZ best in Service 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2021, and 2025