Head of American Art, US

Bonhams•New York, NY

6d•Onsite

About The Position

Bonhams is a global auction house with a rich heritage and a modern approach to the art market. We are seeking a Head of American Art, US, based in New York, to lead and expand our American Art business, encompassing American, Western, and California/Western Art. This senior leadership role is crucial for business generation, client cultivation, and pipeline development. The position involves acting as a primary business getter and subject-matter expert throughout the auction lifecycle, from sourcing and valuation to sale execution and client engagement. The Head of American Art will oversee departmental performance, strategy, and team leadership, reporting to the General Manager, Classics. This role carries full accountability for revenue growth, client development, and the overall success and market position of the department.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Art History, Fine Arts, or related field required; advanced degree preferred.
10+ years of experience in an auction house, gallery, or advisory environment.
Demonstrated expertise in American, Western, and/or California/Western Art.
Proven track record of business getting, consignments sourcing, and revenue generation.
Established and active network within the American art market.
Experience managing teams and leading complex sales initiatives.
Strong commercial judgment paired with deep academic knowledge and connoisseurship.
Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to originate and close business opportunities.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and client relationship skills.
Strategic thinker with strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
Highly organized with strong project management and prioritization skills.
Collaborative, team-oriented, and effective across global teams.
High level of integrity and discretion.
Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

Responsibilities

Act as a principal business getter, developing a robust national pipeline of high-quality consignments.
Cultivate and maintain deep relationships with collectors, dealers, advisors, curators, and institutions.
Identify and secure significant property through both existing relationships and proactive new business development.
Represent Bonhams as a senior ambassador in the market, enhancing brand visibility and credibility.
Provide expert, high-touch advisory services to clients with professionalism, discretion, and responsiveness.
Lead the evaluation, pricing, and negotiation of property, ensuring commercially competitive estimates and terms.
Own and deliver against personal and departmental sales targets and P&L objectives.
Develop and execute sale strategies to drive sell-through rates, value, and profitability.
Partner with cross-category specialists and Client Development teams to maximize buyer engagement and outcomes.
Maintain strong awareness of market trends, competitor activity, and collecting patterns.
Source and secure property for auction, private sale, and appraisal services.
Conduct research, authentication, and valuation of artworks to the highest professional standards.
Prepare insurance and fair market appraisals in accordance with regulatory and industry standards.
Negotiate consignment agreements aligned with company policies and commercial objectives.
Curate and deliver best-in-class auctions, exhibitions, and selling strategies.
Oversee catalogue production, ensuring accuracy, scholarship, and timely delivery.
Participate in pre-sale exhibitions, client outreach, and live auction representation (including telephone bidding).
Maintain consistent client communication throughout the sale lifecycle.
Ensure excellence in connoisseurship, cataloguing, and research.
Oversee and contribute to catalogue essays and marketing content that elevate sale positioning.
Lead the preparation and presentation of consignment proposals in partnership with Proposals and Marketing teams.
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing, collaborative team of specialists and support staff.
Set departmental strategy, budgets, and performance objectives.
Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and excellence.
Ensure efficient operations and alignment with financial and organizational goals.
Partner with Marketing and Press teams to develop impactful campaigns and storytelling.
Represent Bonhams at industry events, exhibitions, and client engagements.
Contribute to thought leadership and market visibility in American Art.