Specialist, Handbags

Sotheby's•New York, NY

7d•$100,000 - $120,000

About The Position

The Handbags Specialist is responsible for sourcing luxury bags and accessories for Auction and Buy Now Marketplace. The Specialist will provide pricing and valuation services to clients and authenticate bags. Additionally, the Specialist will be responsible for building buyer relationships and partnering with internal teams including Catalogers, Account Managers, Coordinators and Relationship Managers.

Requirements

Proven experience of managing client portfolios and driving sales
Experience as a handbag’s authenticator and valuer
Experience in auction house, ecommerce or second-hand luxury shop
Knowledge of retail and resale markets for luxury handbags and accessories
Interest in luxury brands and ecommerce businesses
Enthusiastic, proactive, and flexible
Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Excellent interpersonal skills; capable of building meaningful client relationships
Ability to work independently and as part of a busy, global team
Ability to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion
Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Suite, tech savvy

Responsibilities

Business-getting for Auctions in New York and across the region as well as contributing to major selling US locations and Buy-Now Marketplace.
Drive Private Sale activity within the region including the organization of Private Sale exhibitions within the US markets.
Inspect and authenticate properties in the US.
Work with Head of department and Marketing teams to promote all Auctions and Marketplace initiatives
Outreach to auction bidders and buyers to build relationships
Outreach to Sotheby’s Relationship Managers to ensure internal awareness of all sales happening in this category
Provide regular analysis of auction data to the Head of Department
Advise on handbag and accessory product mix for US clientele
Provide pricing, terms of consignment, and other deal-specific information to consignors
Ensure that product photography is executed properly
Work collaboratively with team Administrators and Coordinators to facilitate smooth handoff of information and positive client experiences
Participate in regular pipeline meetings to keep Head of Department aware of progress for Auction and Marketplace channels
Regular travel throughout the US will be required as part of the role