International Senior Specialist, Books

Sotheby's•New York, NY

2d•$120,000 - $170,000•Onsite

About The Position

Sotheby's, established in 1744, is a premier destination for exceptional art and luxury objects, operating through auctions, private sales, and retail. With expertise across 70 selling categories and a global network in 40 countries, Sotheby's offers a wide range of items including art, jewelry, watches, wine, spirits, design, collectible cars, and real estate. Sotheby's Financial Services provides capital solutions for collectors worldwide. The company's new global headquarters is located at the Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree required.
At least five years of experience with an auction house or major dealer.
Experience and expertise in the field of Books and Manuscripts, with an emphasis on managing various and single owner sales.
Self-starter and proven ability to initiate business.
A team player with excellent communication skills.
Organized, thorough, focused, with a passion and commitment to the field.
Professional and discreet client service skills.
Excellent writing and organizational skills.
Ability to maintain composure in a stressful environment and meet constant deadlines.
Strong multi-tasker.
Knowledge of the auction business both in the US, UK, and Europe.

Nice To Haves

An advanced degree in a related field preferred.

Responsibilities

Work with the Head of Americas, Business Managers, and colleagues in both London and Paris to meet the annual operating plan for the Americas.
Ensure property is added to the sale running list and consult with the Head of Department and Business Manager regarding any promises made to the clients.
Participate in proposal meetings and strategy for competitive business getting.
Interact with Press and Marketing departments on relevant properties as necessary, creating unified marketing campaigns for appropriate property.
Responsible for Books and Manuscripts sales in New York, working with other department members to ensure sales are properly researched, catalogued, and estimated. Duties include print and digital catalogue layout and design, drafting catalogue entries, and providing accurate condition reports.
Negotiate sale terms, explain processes and procedures, and provide service to clients throughout the sale process, both for auction and private sale.
Aid in ensuring adherence to compliance policies throughout sale processes.
Working with the Operations team to conceptualize and execute exhibitions and their installations.
Produce copy for, and coordinate the design, of proposals.
Engage in insurance and fair market value appraisals.
Assist in resolving post sale issues.
Develop new and manage existing client contacts and strategic opportunities in the field of Books and Manuscripts with a focus on business getting as a part of a coordinated effort within an International Department.
Identify and maintain relationships with clients, dealers, and collectors.
Develop key consignors and buyer relationships.
Build strong running lists for live sale series, while cultivating complementary running lists for parallel online sales without conflicting or competing property.
Adherence to sale cataloguing and sale deadlines, optimizing the effectiveness of Marketing (video, editorial, and social media) and Press campaigns.
Overseeing sale outreach, including liaising with Client Strategy, following up with existing clients, and engaging our new bidders.