Client Services Administrator, NY

Bonhams•New York, NY

About The Position

Bonhams is seeking a proactive, detail-oriented Client Services Administrator to join its New York team full-time. This fast-paced, highly visible role delivers an exceptional client experience while supporting the day-to-day operations of an international auction house. The administrator serves as a primary point of contact for client inquiries and auction administration, partnering with specialists and operational departments to support clients throughout their buyer’s journey. The role calls for strong organizational skills, attention to detail, sound judgment, effective communication, collaboration, problem-solving, and a commitment to outstanding service and trusted client relationships.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree and 2 years of relevant client-facing work experience.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with multiple competing deadlines.
Strong attention to detail.
Proactive, consistent communication with clients and internal departments.
Excellent customer service skills and experience dealing with a diverse range of people.
Interest in and thorough knowledge of art history and the art market.
Proficiency in Microsoft and Outlook programs and database software.
Flexibility to cover a fluid and growing sales schedule, including evenings and weekends.

Nice To Haves

Foreign language skills.
Fluency in Mandarin is preferred.

Responsibilities

Serve as a primary point of contact for client inquiries by phone, email, and in person, providing professional and timely support.
Manage front-of-house operations and welcome and direct visitors.
Support auction administration, including bidder registration, bid entry, account maintenance, and sale-related inquiries.
Process payments and cashiering transactions accurately and in accordance with company procedures.
Maintain client records and documentation in compliance with KYC requirements and internal policies.
Coordinate with Operations, Shipping, Finance, and Specialist departments to resolve inquiries and facilitate post-sale outcomes.
Provide clients with shipping and collection guidance and coordinate post-sale logistics as needed.
Handle client escalations and complex service issues, ensuring timely resolution and clear communication.
Monitor shared inboxes and call queues while maintaining service standards and response times.
Support property drop-offs, collections, auction previews, and special events as required.
Assist with onboarding and training new team members, including maintaining training materials and process documentation.
Process incoming mail and deliveries and perform general administrative tasks.
Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and support departmental projects.
Stay aware of auction schedules, company policies, and operational procedures to provide accurate client information.
Assist with auction previews, events, and offsite sales as required, including evening and weekend work and occasional travel.

Benefits

Competitive benefits package intended to encourage work/life balance.
Medical, dental, and vision insurance, including HMO, EPO, and PPO options with FSA and HSA.
20 days of paid time off.
12 paid holidays and a holiday break from Christmas to New Year’s Day.
16 weeks of fully paid parental leave after one year.
Flexible work arrangements.
401(k) retirement plan with company contribution.
Life insurance with AD&D.
Short- and long-term disability.
Tuition reimbursement.
Commuter benefits for transit and parking.
Employee assistance program.
Professional development, including free online training and an expansive content library.
Employee resource groups, including a social club, diversity committee, and mentorship program.
Sponsored social events and activities, including an annual staff art exhibition, annual summer and holiday parties, monthly birthday treats, and weekly breakfast.