Sales Consultant Spotlight on Rick Barker
Rick Barker is a Sales Consultant with Sauder Worship Seating and has been representing Sauder for 18 years. Rick has positively impacted our sales team, the Sauder company, and his community; by his dedication, willingness to serve and enthusiastic personality. His territory spans Southern California, Arizona, Las Vegas, NV vicinity, and Hawaii. In his early years, Rick served as a ministry leader at his church, and was introduced to Sauder through his lead Pastor. We interviewed Rick to learn more about him as a person and as a sales consultant. Learn more about Rick and see what he has to share below.
Tell us a little about yourself
My wife, Monica, and I celebrated 38 years of marriage this year. Together we have two children, Eric and Carlyn. Baseball has also been a big part of my life. I’ve had the privilege of coaching baseball for 20 years; from little league to high school, to travel softball with my daughter. I love watching the Dodgers and Boston Red Sox play. I have been fortunate to see the Dodgers play at Fenway Park over three consecutive days, which was an incredible experience. On another note, music has always been integral to my life. In the 80s, I toured with a Christian Rock group where we recorded and produced worship music. Today, I continue to play professionally and for my church.
How did you get started in the furniture industry?
My introduction to the furniture industry started while working at Thermador and Price Pfister – which are home furnishing manufacturers. Years later, I was an operations consultant for office furniture designs, where my pastor introduced me to Sauder. I became a Sales Consultant for Sauder Manufacturing Co. in 2004. 18 years later, I am still blessed to be a part of this team representing Sauder Worship Seating.
What do you enjoy most about your job as a sales consultant?
I love the challenge of bringing together the right solution to a project or design that fits the Ministry. We are privileged to work with many worship facilities that range from Contemporary, Traditional, Liturgical, Synagogues, and Military applications. It brings me joy to be part of these projects that include Ministry Leaders, Architects, and Designers. I’m honored to have those relationships, turn into long-term friendships and professional connections, where we all help serve our customers.
Which Sauder Worship Seating product is your favorite and why?
We produce a tremendous line of products that are designed to meet one’s seating needs. Our furniture is engineered and produced for optimal comfort and durability. Simply put, they’re built to last. My favorite seating product includes our Vantage Chair, as this model is highly versatile within the worship community across all denominations. Our Vantage chair collection is made from a plybent construction which gives them fortified strength and longevity. I have been to churches where our Vantage chairs have been in place for over 30 years and are still in excellent shape.
A memorable project.
One of my more memorable projects was St. Raphael Catholic Church in Kauai, Hawaii. The historical significance was astounding; St. Raphael was built in 1841 and is the oldest Catholic Church in Hawaii. This project involved upgrading their existing pews with our Radiance® curved pews and renovating the Chapel with our Oaklok chairs. Not only was it a privilege to be a part of this project from start to finish; but for me, it was the friendships and relationships. By the time we were finished, I was part of the Ohana ([Hawaiian], meaning Family) which made that entire experience all the more meaningful.
