Senior Books & Manuscripts Specialist – Global Auctions

Sotheby's; New York (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary bonus

Competitive benefits package

Job summary

Sotheby’s in New York seeks a Senior Specialist in the Books and Manuscripts department to manage sourcing, estimating, and cataloguing for auction and private sales, coordinating sales in New York and London and aligning the global sale calendar.

The ideal candidate will bring five years of experience at a major auction house or dealer, strong writing and client relationship skills, and a proven ability to initiate new business.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree required, with an advanced degree preferred.
• Five years of experience with an auction house or major dealer.
• Experience in Books and Manuscripts, managing various and single-owner sales.
• Self-starter with ability to initiate business.
• Excellent writing and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Work with Head of Americas, Business Managers, and colleagues in London/Paris to meet annual operating plan for the Americas.
• Ensure property is added to sale running lists and consult with leadership on client promises.
• Participate in proposal meetings and strategy for competitive business getting.
• Coordinate with Press/Marketing to create unified campaigns for properties.
• Research, catalogue, and estimate Books and Manuscripts items for sale in NY and support auctions and private sales.
• Negotiate sale terms and provide client service throughout sale process.
• Help ensure compliance with policies in sale processes.
• Assist in exhibitions and installations with Operations.
• Produce catalog copy and design proposals.

Skills

Business development

Client relations

Written communication

Organization

Deadline management

Education

Bachelor's degree

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Sotheby’s in New York seeks a Senior Specialist in the Books and Manuscripts department to manage sourcing, estimating, and cataloguing for auction and private sales, coordinating sales in New York and London and aligning the global sale calendar.

The ideal candidate will bring five years of experience at a major auction house or dealer, strong writing and client relationship skills, and a proven ability to initiate new business.