Specialist, Modern & Post-War British Art

Sotheby's; Greater London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Sotheby's is seeking a professional for new business generation within the Modern & Post-War British Art department. This role involves sourcing artwork, client management, and contributing to departmental targets.

The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in art sales, excellent negotiation skills, and a strong understanding of the auction process. A passion for Modern & Post-War British Art is essential. The position offers opportunities for travel and professional growth within a dynamic team.

Qualifications

• 6+ years of professional experience in the art world, ideally at an auction house.
• 2+ years in a client-facing sales position preferred.
• Strong business acumen and developed valuation skills.

Responsibilities

• Sourcing property and conducting client visits.
• Meeting sales and profit targets.
• Mentoring junior team members.

Skills

Client relationship management

Negotiation skills

Knowledge of Modern & Post-War British Art

Education

Degree in Art or equivalent

Master's degree in Art preferred

Tools

Client System

Intellitrack

CAT

Job description

About Sotheby's

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby’s new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

The Role

To be responsible for new business generation in the Modern & Post-War British Art department and for the solicitation, authentication, evaluation and sale of property in order to meet the total departmental sales and profit targets. To catalog, research and help co-ordinate the Modern & Post-War British Art sales, and assist in the general day-to-day functions of the department. Close co-operation and good communications with colleagues in the department. Using national and international networks to ensure a consistent, client focused message, delivering a high standard of active client management. Candidate will demonstrate extensive knowledge, passion and commitment to the field, be willing to travel and will have in-depth experience of the art auction business.

Responsibilities

• Play a key role in sourcing property, including overseas travel and client visits as appropriate
• Business getting and negotiation, meeting sales and net profit targets for particular sales. Generating and nurturing strategic, long term-business development.
• Key role in selling works to global clients
• Mentor junior members of the team, ensuring that skills and knowledge are passed on to and shared with all members of the department.
• Cataloging and researching items for the Modern British sales and working with other members of the department to ensure this is carried out to the highest standards according to scheduled deadlines
• Maintaining an exceptionally high level of client service, both internally and externally (colleagues and public)
• Operating at all times in accordance with the company’s rules on compliance and corporate governance
• Facilitating high level private treaty sales where appropriate
• Preparation of proposals
• Preparation of valuations for Insurance etc
• Maintain high levels of expertise and professionalism in all activities

Ideal Experience & Competencies

• Degree holder or equivalent (Art related masters preferable)
• 6+ years of professional experience, ideally from the art world in an auction house, gallery, or museum.
• 2+ years in a client-facing sales position preferred
• Preferred Specialist with knowledge of Modern & Post-War British Art and contextual literature
• Ability to effectively access archives and reference sources
• Overall awareness of Sotheby’s services (e.g. Financial Services)
• Functional working knowledge of the whole auction process and related procedures (e.g. shipping regulations, VAT)
• Proven business acumen and fully developed valuation skills
• Language and Communication skills as appropriate
• Flexible and receptive to change
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• High level of IT capability (i.e. ability to independently use the Client System, Intellitrack, CAT etc.)

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Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.