Director, Programming - Arts & Ideas
About The Position
Sotheby’s is seeking a Director, Programming — Art & Ideas to join its Special Projects team in New York. Reporting to the Head of Experiences, the Director develops and executes cultural programs and special projects across art, ideas and the broader creative landscape. This highly collaborative, execution-focused role calls for cultural knowledge, strong project management, and the ability to lead complex initiatives from concept through delivery. The Director works with artists, cultural leaders, external collaborators and Sotheby’s colleagues to deliver distinctive programming and experiences, managing multiple projects, stakeholders and markets simultaneously.
Requirements
- 8–10 years of relevant professional experience developing and executing cultural programming, artist projects, events, exhibitions, convenings or interdisciplinary initiatives.
- Strong knowledge of contemporary art and culture, with curiosity across disciplines including design, architecture, film, literature and the broader creative landscape.
- Proven track record of delivering complex cultural programs and experiences.
- Excellent project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
- Experience working directly with artists, talent and senior external stakeholders.
- Strong cultural judgment and ability to identify compelling contributors and collaborators.
- Willingness to travel and work outside standard business hours when required.
Nice To Haves
- Experience gained within an arts institution, museum, foundation, cultural organization, creative studio, luxury environment or other relevant organization.
Responsibilities
- Develop and execute cultural programming and special projects in partnership with the Head of Experiences.
- Own major cultural programs and special projects end to end, from concept development and budgeting through production, delivery and evaluation.
- Translate programming concepts into actionable plans that balance creative vision, operational feasibility and successful execution.
- Identify, research and recommend artists, speakers, cultural figures and collaborators across disciplines.
- Manage relationships and communications with artists, talent, advisors, partners and other external stakeholders.
- Develop and produce programming formats including conversations, performances, artist-led projects, private gatherings and larger-scale cultural programs.
- Lead programming around key moments in the international cultural calendar and across Sotheby’s global markets, including major cultural experiences, convenings and the Symposium.
- Coordinate advisory groups, committees and external collaborators as required.
- Coordinate internal teams, external partners, participating talent and production colleagues.
- Partner with Events and Production teams to deliver programs to a high creative and operational standard.
- Manage external vendors, consultants and collaborators where appropriate.
- Maintain a pipeline of prospective artists, contributors, collaborators and programming opportunities.
- Work cross-functionally with specialist departments, Editorial, Brand, Communications and regional teams.
- Own program budgets, timelines and delivery standards, proactively managing resources, risks and outcomes.
- Ensure programming is delivered with attention to detail, discretion and consistency.
Benefits
- Eligible for a discretionary bonus.
- Competitive benefits package.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Director
Education Level
No Education Listed
