Associate Cataloguer, Books and Manuscripts

Sotheby's•New York, NY

2d•$50,000 - $55,000•Onsite

About The Position

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 function of this role is to support the Books and Manuscripts Department in New York including, but not limited to, coordinating and cataloguing both live and online sales with accompanying print and digital catalogues, and assistance with large-scale appraisals. Additionally, general assistance is required for all specialists and consultants in the department.

Requirements

At least two years of experience in an auction house or dealer setting
Excellent communication and client service skills
Excellent organizational skills including ability to multi-task and prioritize
High level of attention to detail
Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Outlook, Word and Excel
Enthusiasm and willingness to broaden knowledge
Flexibility to work overtime and weekend hours when necessary

Nice To Haves

Knowledge of a classical language preferred
Proven administrative and/or relevant experience is desirable

Responsibilities

Assist with the evaluation of works for auction and appraisal purposes, including responses to phone, written, and online platform estimate requests
Work with specialists on valuations and close follow-up on property that has been estimated but not yet consigned for sale
Assist specialists in securing consignments of property for sale at auction, including client correspondence, preparation of auction estimates, and writing, proofreading, and coordination of proposals
Liaise with the department coordinator to maintain running lists of property already consigned, potential future consignments, as well as client and consignment files and records
Conduct research, especially to establish provenance, publication and exhibition history of consigned or appraised property, maintaining the highest standard of completeness and accuracy; and consistent presentation of this information for auction catalogues and private sale presentations
Write and proofread for catalogue notes and essays, maintaining the highest standard of quality
In conjunction with the department coordinator and Head of Department, assist with catalogue production including: Entering and editing catalogue text in ADM, ensuring catalogue data is accurate and recorded in a timely manner
Liaising with support departments, such as Central Receiving and Photo
Maintaining shoot lists, and assisting with the layout, and the ordering of sales
Coordinate and manage sale related responsibilities, including condition reports, assisting with exhibition set-up, staffing exhibitions and assisting prospective clients, conducting underbid recording and bidding
Promote auctions leading up to each sale date including outreach
Reply to inquiries from potential bidders; take and send photographs of lots as necessary
Coordinate and manage sellers and their property through the pre- and post-sale processes
Partner with other business areas to respond to client inquiries, resolve client issues, and execute client transactions to ensure the highest level of client satisfaction