ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
THE ROLE
The Associate Specialist in the Popular Culture department will focus on all aspects of the business with emphasis on sourcing, estimating and cataloging property for auction and private sales. In addition, they will assist with developing and maintaining key client relationships, participate in business getting, liaise with consultants, and develop future consignors and buyers. This position will play a key role in helping to build and expand this growing department, which focuses on Popular Culture across Music, Film, Posters, Animation, and Comics.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Sale Development and Business Getting:
- Help drive new business and consignments for auction, private sales. and marketplace
- Work with the Vice Chairman of Popular Culture, the Business Manager and Specialist colleagues to meet the annual operating plan both domestic and international for a global department.
- Participate in proposal strategy meetings for competitive business getting.
- Write notes for proposals and coordinate production with proposals and design.
- Negotiate sale terms, explain the auction process and procedures and provide service to clients throughout the sale process, both for auction and private sale from start to finish.
- Ensuring property is added to the sale running list, with any promises made to clients noted.
- Ensure sale consignments are properly catalogued, researched and estimated; and provide accurate condition reports.
- Maintain accurate records of department and warehouse inventory.
Client Development and Management:
- Maintain an exceptionally high level of client service, both internally and externally
- Develop and maintain a network of clients, supporting sales within the department and across categories
- Manage online valuations requests and telephone enquiries.
- Engage in insurance and fair market value appraisals under the guidance of Senior Specialists.
- Assist in resolving post-sale issues.
- Aid in ensuring adherence to compliance policies and organization of the sale process. To include shipping and cites requirements.
Department Press and Marketing:
- Preparing exhibition planning and installation with the Operations department.
- Help with both online & printed catalogue layout and design.
- Manage the photography of items for sale with the in-house team.
- Writing catalogue essays, detailed footnotes and conducting picture research.
- Engage in Press and Social outreach as appropriate, supporting the promotion of our sales.
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Expertise and experience in the research and cataloguing of Popular Culture, primarily in the fields of Music, Film, or Comics - ideally 6+ Years in the field
- Knowledge of the auction business and/or retail trade.
- Self-starter and proven ability to initiate business with a passion for the field.
- Areas of interest including but not limited to; vintage film posters, concert posters, certified awards, autographs, film & TV props, celebrity associated musical instruments, vintage studio equipment, stage worn fashion, film costume & accessories, rock & pop photography, rare records, lyric sheets, personal letters, manuscripts and ephemera, animation cels, rare comic books, and original comic art.
- Professional and discreet, operating with upmost confidentiality when dealing with high profile names and/or collections, showcasing exceptional client service skills.
- Strong multi-tasker with ability to prioritize with a willingness to learn about other parts of the business.
- Excellent research, writing and organizational skills with effective time management.
- A team player with excellent communication skills.
- Ability to maintain composure in a stressful environment and meet constant deadlines.
- Willingness to travel, and work outside office hours when required.
The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $75,000-$100,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered.
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The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.
What We Do
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access, connoisseurship and preservation of fine art and rare objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 50 categories, which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Interiors, among many others.
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