We create personalized spaces that elevate your well-being, promote, innovation, and transform the communities in which we live.
Custer creates exceptional workspaces that empower people to do their best work. Established in 1981, Custer now serves multiple territories reaching outside of West Michigan as a premier dealership of Steelcase furniture. Throughout four decades, our capabilities have expanded to offer interior solutions for small business, education, healthcare, and corporate clients. Custer designs and builds environments that maximize productivity and a sense of purpose, drawing on extensive research and established expertise. Providing full-service solutions including workplace strategy, design, integrated technology, commercial flooring, custom-tailored solutions and furniture, Custer delivers spaces that support a better way of working
We are currently searching for an Education Specialist for our Grand Rapids market to support our Sales staff in the Education vertical market. As an Education Specialist you will play a crucial role in the design, project management and, to our education market in order to achieve targets and deliver exceptional customer service. Initial responsibilities include project design, product specification, project coordination and assisting sales with quoting to ensure order accuracy, tracking furniture shipments, scheduling installations, and inspecting completed projects. This individual will work independently and, on a team, responsible for daily coordination of all aspects of the project and act as the communications link between the dealer and the customer. This person is responsible for completing projects with accuracy while monitoring project performance and meeting or exceeding customer expectations.
The intent is for this position to transition into a Sales Advisor on the Education team. A candidate with an interest in moving into a sales role is important.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Develop a complete understanding of the Custer business model and contract furniture industry including the sales processes.
- Review of quotes; ability to audit project work
- Follow-up to maintain status reports on all orders.
- Assist in resolving punch list issues.
- Understand all phases of the design process, managing any size or scope of project from inception to completion.
- Knowledge of the application of CET, Procore and any other design-related software applications
- Demonstrate competence in the proper application and specification of Steelcase furniture and/or other furniture manufacturers.
- Create and provide accurate floor plans, field measure project areas, specifications, project documentation, installation drawing bid documentation, finish, and materials documentation, etc.
- Communicates with customers regarding order status, schedule of work, site requirements and project parameters for delivery/installation, follows up on project through punch list resolution.
- Adhere to deadlines and lead design efforts to on-time project completion in coordination with the customer, other trades, and other Custer team members.
- Supports Custer and the Sales Departments goals and objectives.
- Ability to attend customer meetings to develop relationships with our major Education accounts.
- Provide product information, pricing, and availability to customers as needed.
- Work closely with the sales team to achieve individual and collective sales targets.
- Communicate effectively with colleagues, contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment.
- Provide feedback and suggestions for improving sales processes and customer service delivery.
- Attend monthly Sales staff meetings.
- Attending monthly vendor lunch-n learns to gain an understanding of product offerings.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Interior Design or Facilities Planning experience.
- Background or market experience in the commercial education furniture industry or architecture; a plus
- Experience with Design Software (CET, CAD, etc.....)
- Solid writing and communication skills
- Core math skills and computer skills.
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Natural sense of care and urgency
- Collaborative personality traits and ability to work well with others.
- Growth mindset with a desire to learn sales competencies.
- Strong customer service orientation
- Alignment with Custer’s core values
- Ability to pass a drug screen, criminal background check and valid driver’s license, insurance, and a vehicle to conduct business.
- Demonstrated commitment to professionalism, integrity, and sound judgment in business transactions, and providing the highest level of customer and employee satisfaction.
- Employment performance demonstrates consistent initiative, dedication, commitment, and perseverance.
- Knowledge of sales process and previous sales or customer service background preferred.
EDUCATION EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree in Interior Design or Facilities Planning
- A minimum of 3 + years’ work experience