NICKOLAS JOHN ZUBEK

Sales Professional, Tile and Hard Surface Expert, and Interior Designer

PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Accomplished business owner and sales/interior design professional with 15+ years of experience highly regarded for driving million-dollar sales, generating revenue, and creating creative solutions to complex client problems. Dedicated leader with a proven history of training and managing high-performing teams that consistently exceed business and client expectations. Increase client retention rates by rapidly identifying unique customer needs and establishing rapport. Organized and a keen eye for detail, with demonstrated ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously. Leverage strong communication skills to foster long-lasting relationships with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders. Thrive in fast-paced, collaborative, and diverse environments.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Business Leadership and Management

Vendor and Supplier Management

Stakeholder Relationship Management

Interior Architecture, Design, Renovation

Tile and Hard Surface Knowledge

Marketing and Branding

Project Management

Relationship Building

Sales Strategy

Real Estate Sales

Contract Negotiation

WORK EXPERIENCE

Design Works Of Florida, Sarasota, FL, January 2021 to Present

ARCHITECTURAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE, OUTSIDE SALES

Oversee high-end tile sales and design services targeting the trade sector, including architects, builders, and designers.

Engage with key stakeholders to identify their specific design and project requirements, offering tailored product recommendations and design solutions to meet their unique needs.

Facilitate product presentations and demonstrations to educate clients on the features, benefits, and applications of various tile and architectural solutions, improving their product knowledge and confidence in making purchase decisions.

Partner with internal teams to provide technical support, address client inquiries, and ensure the smooth execution of orders, delivery schedules, and project timelines.

Utilize customer relationship management (CRM) tools to track leads, manage client interactions, and streamline sales processes, contributing to improved efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Host and participate in industry events, trade shows, and networking activities to expand the client base, build brand recognition, and create opportunities for business growth.

Key Achievements

Establish and nurture strong business relationships within the competitive Tampa-Sarasota markets, resulting in consistent annual sales exceeding $1 million.

Global Lifestyle LLC, St. Petersburg, FL September 2018 to Present

REAL ESTATE SALES

Leverage comprehensive market knowledge and networking skills to build a track record of successful real estate transactions.

Demonstrate exceptional communication and interpersonal skills to understand clients' needs, address concerns, and guide them through the buying or selling process, resulting in high client satisfaction levels.

Conduct thorough property assessments and market analyses to provide clients with accurate property valuations and pricing strategies, leading to competitive listings and optimal returns on investments.

Implement effective marketing campaigns, including online and offline channels, to promote properties and attract potential buyers, resulting in increased property visibility and faster sales.

Collaborate with mortgage brokers, appraisers, inspectors, and other professionals to ensure efficient real estate transactions, providing clients with comprehensive services and support throughout the process.

Navigate negotiations for complex real estate transactions, including purchase agreements and contracts, to ensure favorable contract terms and conditions.

Forge and cultivate strong relationships with clients, real estate professionals, and industry contacts to foster a robust referral network and secure new or repeat business opportunities.

Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and legal regulations to provide clients with accurate and up-to-date information, enhancing their confidence in decision-making.

Key Achievements

Chart successful course of closing over $3 million in residential real estate sales in 2022 and 2023.

Stone Lighting, LLC, Chicago, IL and Eastern Coast, FL, October 2010 to Present

INDEPENDENT SHOWROOM AND SPECIFICATION SALES REPRESENTATIVE

Spearhead international sales and marketing efforts as a Manufacturer's Representative, driving strategic planning for permanent showrooms across 50 states.

Guide and coordinate cross-functional teams to successfully execute sales initiatives, ensuring the creation and maintenance of visually appealing product displays that captivated customers.

Provide on-site customer support and engagement within the highly competitive Chicago, IL market, catering to the needs of architects, designers, and showrooms.

Develop key national accounts, including industry giants such as Chase Bank and Amazon, by delivering tailored product solutions, negotiating contracts, and fostering strong, long-term business relationships.

Nickolas John Interiors, LLC, Chicago, IL and St. Petersburg, FL, July 2006 to Present

OWNER & PRINCIPAL DESIGNER

Establish and successfully operate an integrated Interior Design, Sales, and Real Estate Management firm, assuming responsibility for all facets of business operations, including marketing, sales, interior design, financial management, and client relationship management.

Manage all aspects of the business, from initial client consultations to project execution, ensuring exceptional quality and customer satisfaction throughout the design process.

Collaborate with clients to define project objectives, develop design concepts, and select furnishings and materials that align with their vision and budget.

Oversee project timelines and budgets, delivering projects on time and within cost constraints while maintaining the highest standards of design excellence.

Handle vendor relationships, negotiate contracts, and source materials and furnishings, optimizing cost-effectiveness and project efficiency.

Cultivate a loyal client base through outstanding customer service, transparency, and a commitment to deliver exceptional design solutions.

Ceramic Matrix, Tampa, FL, September 2018 to December 2021

ARCHITECTURAL SALES REPRESENTATIVE – OUTSIDE SALES

Deliver high-end tile sales and design services to professionals in the industry, including architects, builders, and designers, with a focus on establishing and nurturing valuable relationships within the Tampa-Sarasota market.

Key Achievements

Built a client portfolio from inception to an annual book of business exceeding $2 million.

Lowes Home Improvement, Benton Harbor, MI, March 2017 to September 2018

ASM – SALES MANAGER

Oversaw the performance of a $40 million location by leading a team of 150 employees across high-volume, sales-driven departments.

Designed and implemented comprehensive sales training programs, computer training initiatives, and provided ongoing support for day-to-day organizational and interpersonal skill development at all employment levels.

Previous Experience

Encompass Lighting Group, Skokie, IL, 2006 to 2009 NATIONAL SHOWROOM MANAGER

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Interior Architecture, 2004

Illinois Institute of Art, Chicago, IL

Illinois Real Estate Licensee, 2015

Coldwell Banker Real Estate School

Florida Real Estate License, 2019 to Present

Global Lifestyle

Technical Proficiencies: QuickBooks, Microsoft Word and Excel, Chief Architect, AutoCAD 2013, Adobe Photoshop

Interests: Boating, Swimming, Exercising, CrossFit, Weightlifting, Cooking, Home Design, and Renovation

St. Petersburg, FL 847-***-**** ad16i8@r.postjobfree.com LinkedIn

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