Specialist, Handbags

Sotheby's; Los Angeles (CA); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading auction house in Los Angeles is seeking a Handbags Specialist to source luxury bags and accessories for auction and a buy-now marketplace. The Specialist will authenticate bags, provide pricing, and build relationships with clients. Successful candidates will have experience in managing client portfolios and driving sales in the luxury market. A competitive salary of $70,000-$90,000, plus a bonus and benefits, is offered. Regular travel throughout the US is expected.

Qualifications

• Proven experience managing client portfolios and driving sales.
• Experience as a handbag authenticator and valuer.
• Knowledge of retail markets for luxury handbags and accessories.

Responsibilities

• Source luxury bags and accessories for auction and buy-now marketplace.
• Drive private sale activity and organize private sale exhibitions.
• Inspect and authenticate properties in the US.
• Provide pricing and valuation services to clients.

Skills

Client portfolio management

Sales driving

Luxury handbags authentication

Excellent communication skills

Proficiency in Excel

Tools

Excel

PowerPoint

Google Suite

Job description

About Sotheby's

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which 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. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

The Role

The Handbags Specialist is responsible for sourcing luxury bags and accessories for Auction and Buy Now Marketplace. The Specialist will provide pricing and valuation services to clients and authenticate bags. Additionally, the Specialist will be responsible for building buyer relationships and partnering with internal teams including Catalogers, Account Managers, Coordinators and Relationship Managers.

Responsibilities

• Business-getting for Auctions in New York and across the region as well as contributing to major selling US locations and Buy-Now Marketplace.
• Drive Private Sale activity within the region including the organization of Private Sale exhibitions within the US markets.
• Inspect and authenticate properties in the US.
• Work with Head of department and Marketing teams to promote all Auctions and Marketplace initiatives
• Outreach to auction bidders and buyers to build relationships
• Outreach to Sotheby’s Relationship Managers to ensure internal awareness of all sales happening in this category
• Provide regular analysis of auction data to the Head of Department
• Advise on handbag and accessory product mix for US clientele
• Provide pricing, terms of consignment, and other deal-specific information to consignors
• Ensure that product photography is executed properly
• Work collaboratively with team Administrators and Coordinators to facilitate smooth handoff of information and positive client experiences
• Participate in regular pipeline meetings to keep Head of Department aware of progress for Auction and Marketplace channels
• Regular travel throughout the US will be required as part of the role

Ideal Experience & Competencies

• Proven experience of managing client portfolios and driving sales
• Experience as a handbag’s authenticator and valuer
• Experience in auction house, ecommerce or second-hand luxury shop
• Knowledge of retail and resale markets for luxury handbags and accessories
• Interest in luxury brands and ecommerce businesses
• Enthusiastic, proactive, and flexible
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills; capable of building meaningful client relationships
• Ability to work independently and as part of a busy, global team
• Ability to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Suite, tech savvy

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $70,000-$90,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered.

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.