Senior Specialist

Sothebys; Hong Kong; On-site; HKD 400,000 - 600,000; Full time

Job summary

Sotheby’s is seeking a professional based in Hong Kong to support international CWOA sales, particularly focusing on sourcing and selling across Greater China. You will collaborate with specialists to develop strategic sourcing approaches and grow the client base.

The ideal candidate will have a degree or equivalent, proven experience in business development, and excellent communication skills in English and Cantonese/Mandarin. Knowledge of the auction process and market awareness are essential.

Qualifications

• Proven experience with Business Getting and CWOA Expertise.
• Expert knowledge of specialty, including current market knowledge and archive resources.
• Excellent communication skills in English, Cantonese, or Mandarin, including traditional Chinese.

Responsibilities

• Supporting international CWOA departments on various projects.
• Business negotiation to meet net profit targets.
• Contributing to Asia business expansion plans.

Skills

Business Getting

Client Service Excellence

Market Knowledge

Communication Skills (English, Cantonese/Mandarin)

Education

Degree level or equivalent

Job description

THE ROLE

To support international CWOA sales – both sourcing and selling across Greater China, with a particular focus on Hong Kong and mainland China. Working closely with specialists and consultants in Asia, New York, London and Paris, the incumbent will contribute to the development of strategic sourcing and selling approach for major/key CWOA collections.

Working closely with Chairman, Asia & Creative Director, Sotheby’s Maison, the incumbent will help to define CWOA business strategy for the China market and be responsible for business getting, developing strong relationships with our existing client base as well as identifying new opportunities for development.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Supporting international CWOA departments on various worldwide projects and business opportunities
• Business getting and negotiation, meeting sales and support meeting net profit targets
• Participating marketing events, international sales as and when required by the company
• Contributing to the Asia business expansion plans by increasing market share by working closely with Chairman, Asia & Creative Director, Sotheby’s Maison
• Review of existing CWOA client base with emphasis on introducing/discovering business opportunities
• To expand the database of information regarding Chinese art in Greater China and elsewhere
• Deliver bespoke solutions to consigners and clients within corporate governance
• Providing expertise to client enquiries by email, letter etc. and on the telephone
• Maintaining an exceptionally high level of client service, both internally and externally (colleagues and public)
• Facilitating private treaties where appropriate, in consultation with senior expert
• Assistance in preparation of proposals
• Assistance in preparation of valuations for e.g. insurance
• Some involvement in catalogue production, cataloguing objects to the highest standard, according to client service commitments and sale deadlines when necessary
• Assisting business development opportunities for other categories if applicable
• Participate in ad-hoc duties as requested, not limited to additional main and mid-season auction based duties which may include, but are not limited to, telephone bidding for multiple departments
• Operate at all times in line with corporate governance and compliance policies, practices and procedures

IDEAL EXPERIENCE AND COMPETENCIES

• Degree level or equivalent
• Proven experience with Business Getting and CWOA Expertise
• Expert knowledge of specialty should include:
  • Current in-depth market knowledge and awareness
  • Archives and Reference sources
  • Understanding of the appropriate craft and restoration techniques – the physicality of the object
  • Network of contacts within the CWOA market
• Proven business acumen
• Proven commitment to excellence in Client Service, professional and discreet
• Functional working knowledge of the complete auction process and related procedures (e.g. shipping regulations, VAT, compliance)
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills; fluency in English and Cantonese / or Mandarin essential. Must be able to read and write Traditional Chinese
• Flexible and receptive to change
• Flexible to travel at certain times of the year to support sales, traveling exhibitions and client visits

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.