Transitioning into a new sector without direct sales experience can feel daunting. However, core transferable skills—such as a strong work ethic, practical problem-solving, and authenticity—often matter far more to employers than years of traditional sales background.
In this candidate spotlight, Nathan Sharp shares his transition from working as a firefighter and running a trade business to becoming one of the top Sales Designers at Hammonds Fitted Furniture.
From Firefighter and Business Owner to Sales Designer
Q: Nathan, could you share your professional background before joining Hammonds?
Nathan: My journey to Hammonds was non-traditional. Before joining, I served as a firefighter while simultaneously running my own flooring and tiling business.
Between both roles, I was earning around £60,000 annually, but it required putting in 70 to 80 hours a week. At age 43, I reached a point where I wanted to work smarter rather than simply working longer hours. While I did not come from an academic background, I have always maintained a strong work ethic.
Transitioning to Design Sales
Q: What was the key turning point that led you to apply for the Sales Designer role?
Nathan: My wife actually started the process after speaking with a friend in design sales who was earning strong weekly commissions.
I realised I wanted to build a career with six-figure earning potential. The transition appealed to me because it meant moving away from heavy physical labour into a consultative role where I could work directly with clients, understand their home improvement needs, and recommend solutions using a reliable product range.
Daily Responsibilities and Earnings Potential
Q: What are your day-to-day experiences like as a Sales Designer?
Nathan: Top Sales Designers at Hammonds have the opportunity to achieve six-figure earnings, and the day-to-day process is straightforward if you focus on honesty.
My primary approach is being completely transparent with clients about what works for their space. People buy from advisers they trust, so establishing rapport and offering genuine guidance is essential.
Q: How do you manage your working schedule and week?
Nathan: I maintain a focused approach to my workload. If the start of the week is quieter, I increase my activity over Friday, Saturday, and Sunday to ensure consistent results. Reaching high earning levels requires consistent effort, but I ensure I protect personal time—including a weekly date night with my wife and coaching my son’s football team.
Lifestyle Impact and Advice for Applicants
Q: How has this career change impacted your life beyond financial compensation?
Nathan: Beyond the financial rewards, the most significant change is control over my daily schedule. After waking up at 5:00 AM every morning for 20 years in previous roles, I no longer need an early alarm clock. I have the autonomy to manage my diary independently.
Q: What is your primary recommendation for someone considering a Sales Designer role at Hammonds?
Nathan: It is an excellent opportunity to earn significantly more than in many traditional salaried positions. I had no prior formal sales experience before starting, which proved that a strong work ethic and willingness to learn are what truly count. Hammonds provides a quality product line, strong brand recognition, and the independence to build your own client pipeline.
Q: What are your top tips for succeeding in design sales?
Nathan: Be authentic and upfront with every client. Authenticity cannot be faked, and honesty builds long-term client trust. When combined with consistent hard work, those principles create a solid foundation for a successful sales career.
Take the Next Step in Your Sales Career
Whether you are considering a career change into design sales or looking to scale your commercial sales force, Citrus Connect provides structured recruitment support.
- For Sales Professionals: Explore current UK sales opportunities to find flexible, high-earning roles matched to your transferable strengths.
- For Business Leaders: Contact our specialist sales recruitment team to discuss your hiring targets and learn how our recruitment model connects you with proven sales talent.
