Gina McDonald
Summary
Dynamic Senior Designer with a proven track record at Walter E. Smithe, excelling in visual storytelling and design strategy. Spearheaded complex design projects that significantly boosted revenue while fostering strong client relationships. Adept in leadership and team building, I consistently deliver innovative solutions that align with client visions and industry trends.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
General Sales Manager/Operations Manager
Walter E. Smithe
07.2008 - 07.2024
- Coached employees in successful selling methods and encouraged cross-selling to drive revenue.
- Developed and implemented comprehensive salesperson training program.
- Upheld company policies and implemented standards fairly.
- Maintained extensive knowledge of company products and services.
- Resolved problems with high-profile customers to maintain relationships and increase return customer base.
- Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
- Scheduled employees for shifts, taking into account customer traffic and employee strengths.
- Motivated team members to meet and exceed objectives by setting goals, tracking performance on daily basis and implementing improvement strategies.
- Coached sales associates in product specifications, sales incentives, and selling techniques, significantly increasing customer satisfaction ratings.
Senior Designer
Walter E. Smithe
08.2007 - 07.2024
- Maintained all previous design responsibilities but at an elevated level creating greater revenue and providing more complex designs
Associate Sales Manager
Walter E. Smithe
08.2006 - 07.2008
- Maintained relationships with customers by identifying needs and offering appropriate services.
- Engaged in product training, demonstrations, consumer awareness, branding, and acquisition initiatives to raise awareness and revenues.
- Exceeded sales quotas and increased profitability through effective sales strategy and business planning.
- Attended industry events to expand sales opportunities.
- Handled customer relations issues, enabling quick resolution, and client satisfaction.
- Achieved sales goals and service targets by cultivating and securing new customer relationships.
- Organized promotional events and interacted with community to increase sales volume.
Designer
Walter E. Smithe
08.2005 - 08.2007
- Developed key client relationships, providing design solutions that met needs and budgets without compromising quality or design intent.
- Designed floor plans, thoughtfully selected materials including but not limited to textiles, flooring, wall coverings and lighting boards for presentation.
- Developed space planning concepts, color palette selections, and textile presentations.
- Determined personalized needs, tastes and design preferences through thorough client consultations.
- Specified appropriate products and materials to meet project objectives and design scheme.
- Researched and stayed current on industry trends to incorporate new products into designs.
- Devised project budgets to track expenses and avoid cost overruns.
- Oversaw installation, furniture and other design elements to control final product.
Interior Design Intern
Walter E. Smithe
05.2005 - 08.2005
- Welcomed showroom guests and displayed available design samples to clients.
- Collaborated with design professionals to develop project floorplans and assisted in material selections presentations for clients.
- Organized and improved sales tools in the showroom.
- Analyzed and prepared reports and documents after project completion for clients and stakeholders.
- Cultivated strong working relationships with design professionals.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Family And Consumer Sciences - Interior Design
Illinois State University
Normal, IL05-2005
Skills
- Visual storytelling
- Design strategy
- Revenue growth management
- Sales training
- Sales operations
- Leadership and team building
Timeline
General Sales Manager/Operations Manager
Walter E. Smithe
07.2008 - 07.2024
Senior Designer
Walter E. Smithe
08.2007 - 07.2024
Associate Sales Manager
Walter E. Smithe
08.2006 - 07.2008
Designer
Walter E. Smithe
08.2005 - 08.2007
Interior Design Intern
Walter E. Smithe
05.2005 - 08.2005
Bachelor of Science - Family And Consumer Sciences - Interior Design
Illinois State University
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