Kate Garrett

I am a dedicated and energetic customer-focused sales professional with a cheerful disposition and positive attitude. Known for delivering exceptional customer service, I enjoy building strong client relationships in dynamic people-facing roles. My background is in design and sales, and I thoroughly enjoy the administrative and co-ordination tasks that come with these roles.

I am a clear and confident communicator with a professional phone manner. Computer literate, and a quick learner, who remains cool and collected under pressure, with an ability to multitask, prioritise and complete tasks in a busy environment. Self-motivated and adaptable, I am confident to work independently but believe that I truly thrive as a team member in an environment where I can roll my sleeves up and support my colleagues to get the job done.

Interior Design/Sales Consultant at Tomfoolery (2022-04 – Present)

My duties at Tomfoolery are largely consistent with those outlined below for Country Life Interiors. The business focuses on larger-scale high end interior design projects, with an emphasis on high-end fabrics and home furnishings, and operated within a non-commission based sales environment

Drape Sales/Design Consultant at Country Life Interiors (2016-05 – 2022-04)

• Incentive-based sales of curtains, blinds, upholstery, furniture, lighting, and home accessories
• Delivered in-store and in-home consultations, building close client relationships, guiding them through design, product selection, and budgeting
• Measured, quantified, quoted, followed up, and closed sales
• Prepared detailed making instructions and installer documentation
• Liaised with manufacturers, suppliers, and installers to ensure smooth project delivery
• Assisted on-site during installations and provided after-sales service
• Managed customer orders, inventory, and showroom presentation
• Maintained up-to-date product knowledge and pricing
• Assisted with staff training and mentoring
• Contributed to store relocation, including layout, surfaces, and design decisions

Window Furnishing & Flooring Sales Consultant at Carpet Court (2008-08 – 2016-05)

• Target and incentive-based sales of window furnishings and flooring
• Conducted in-home and in-store consultations with a strong focus on trust and clarity
• Measured, quantified, quoted, and ordered products
• Coordinated suppliers, installers, and project timelines
• Managed sampling, showroom presentation, and stock control
• Presented at home shows and client events
• Supported store relocation and showroom redesign

Kitchen Sales Consultant at Mitre 10 Mega (2004-08 – 2008-08)

• Target-driven sales of custom and flat-pack kitchens and appliances
• Delivered one-on-one design consultations using CAD software
• Quantified, quoted, ordered, and coordinated custom kitchen solutions
• Liaised with suppliers, installers, and delivery teams
• Managed stock, back-costing, and inventory
• Assisted with process improvements and team training
• Contributed to store layout and relocation projects

Retail Assistant / Colour Consultant at Benjamin Moore Colourworks (1999-10 – 2001-09)

• Provided customer service, colour consultancy, and DIY advice to retail and trade clients
• Mixed and tinted paint to specification
• Managed cash/EFTPOS transactions and phone enquiries
• Maintained stock levels, pricing, and visual displays
• Assisted with seminars and product demonstrations

Bachelor of Design in Interior – Wellington Institute of Technology (1996 – 2001)

University Entrance – Upper Hutt College (1991 – 1995)