Head of Research, Impressionist & Modern Art

Christie's•New York, NY

5d•$90,000 - $120,000

About The Position

The Head of Research & Senior Writer is responsible for composing scholarly, well-researched lot essays to accompany the Impressionist & Modern works of art included in the 20th Century Evening Sale, the premier global sale platform of its kind. This role will work closely with the specialist team and wider department to ensure exceptional standards for writing, editing, proofreading and copyediting the aforementioned scholarly essays alongside other client-facing materials as required by the department, such as proposals and bespoke catalogues. The ideal candidate will have: five years of relevant experience; a demonstrated background in Impressionist & Modern Art and scholarly writing; exceptional written and verbal communication and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment. History of Art master’s degrees are strongly preferred. Please note that a relevant writing sample is required to apply. Applications without will not be considered.

Requirements

Undergraduate degree required, master’s degree in art history strongly preferred
Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in Impressionist & Modern Art
5+ years’ work experience
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including superior written and spoken communication
Strong project management skills including ability to multi-task, prioritize, manage, and meet multiple deadlines
Hard-working, energetic, and intellectually curious self-starter who can thrive in a high-pressure environment
Works collaboratively across multiple groups and sites
Remains calm in stressful situations and creatively problem solves
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong systems expertise in Outlook and Microsoft Office Suite
Ability to learn Christie’s internal systems and databases

Nice To Haves

History of Art master’s degrees are strongly preferred

Responsibilities

Research and write compelling, scholarly essays for the Impressionist & Modern works of art in the 20th Century Evening Sale, working closely with the specialist team and other key department stakeholders to ensure smooth production and timely sign off.
Project manage the production and delivery of digital lot essays on Christies.com.
Select comparative, engaging images to accompany the lot essays, partnering with the copyright team to ensure illustrations are sourced and copyright permissions cleared ahead of print and online publishing deadlines.
Coordinate with the Creative team and Impressionist & Modern Art Specialists to edit and produce dedicated and single owner catalogues, contributing written materials and comparatives as well as aiding in the overall design, layout, look and feel.
Contribute writing and research for the creation of proposals, collection dedications and other business getting or research documents for the Impressionist and Modern department.
Manage collaboration with other internal and external essay writers, including hiring, training and management of freelance writers as needed.
Lead guided tours during pre-sale exhibition.
Partner with Head of Research EMEA to develop the global research strategy for Impressionist and Modern Art.
Support the wider global research team as needed with lot essays and business getting documents for other sale sites.
Build key networks between external writers, scholars and institutions and Christie’s research team.
Develop and deliver a regular training program on topics such as writing for auction, best practices for research, and how to use Christie’s designated essay design platform and proofing system.
Oversee the Impressionist & Modern Art library, including managing the purchasing of new books, ensuring new books are catalogued in the internal database and monitoring its general maintenance.

Benefits

Comprehensive Medical, Dental and Vision care plans for employees and dependents
401(k) Savings Plan – Christie’s provides a matching contribution up to 5% (subject to IRS limits)
Life Insurance - 3x base salary (100% paid by Christie’s)
Disability Insurance (100% paid by Christie’s)
Generous time-off and leave policies; including 100% Paid Family Leave up to 16 weeks.
Fitness Reimbursement Program: reimbursement of eligible fitness fees and memberships up to $600 per year
Annual Discretionary Performance Bonus Plan
Commuter Benefits - Pre-tax money towards your daily commute with a Christie’s contribution of $21 per month
Back Up Child & Elder Care – up to 10 days of back-up Child or Elder Care through Bright Horizons
CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) Day- Each employee receives one paid day per year to dedicate their time to a charity of their choice.
Perks and Discounts through Zo and Plum Benefits