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- Tasks: Lead a small team and manage Antique Arms and Armour auctions.
- Company: Bonhams is a global auction house with a rich 18th-century heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28-33 days of holiday, healthcare, and enhanced parental leave.
- Why this job: Join a renowned department and make an impact in the auction world.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in auction or specialty fields, strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Work partially from various Bonhams locations and engage with collectors.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
This job is brought to you by Jobs/Redefined, the UK’s leading over-50s age inclusive jobs board.
About Bonhams
Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewellery, and entertainment memorabilia.
About the team
Bonhams Antique Arms and Armour auctions offer a range of European and Eastern armour and edged weapons, as well as wheel-lock, flintlock, percussion and pin-fire rifles, guns, pistols and revolvers; American firearms by great makers such as Colt and Winchester; Islamic and Japanese weapons and armour; accessories including powder-flasks, books and other items relating to the armourer and his craft from the 14th to late 19th centuries. This small but renowned department holds auctions in London and Massachusetts.
The department is based in our Knightsbridge saleroom, but there is potential for working partially from other Bonhams locations.
About the role
In your role as Head of Department, Arms and Armour, you will:
- Effectively manage a small team of people, leading by direction and example in a manner that will maximise the efficiency of the team.
- Catalogue Antique Arms and Armour sales, and assist with preparation of the catalogues on a timely basis to meet deadlines.
- Maintain budgeted commission levels.
- Have a good sound knowledge of your area.
- Maintain contact with collectors and individuals with known collections of your area.
- Actively pursue new business for the department.
- Develop the database of buyers and vendors.
- Foster good relations with trade and professional bodies to assist with the advancement of the department.
- Ensure the department meets all the contractual obligations to both Bonhams buyers and vendors.
- Entertain customers as and when appropriate.
- Manage the budgeting of the Department and effectively use the expenditure in such a way to bring the most benefits.
About you
As Head of Department for Antique Arms and Armour, you will play a pivotal role in assembling, managing, and executing auctions. You will be responsible for overseeing the department’s operations, building and maintaining client relationships, sourcing high-quality consignments, and driving sales growth. This role requires a deep understanding of weaponry and armour, manufacturers and craftsmen, historical context, and market trends.
Key skills and experience:
- Proven experience in the specialty field and/or in the auction industry.
- Relationships with established dealers and collectors in the field.
- Strong written and verbal communication and networking skills.
- Detail-oriented, well-organized manager.
- Ability to prioritize and meet strict scheduled deadlines.
- Computer proficient, and able to work within our business enterprise software.
- Ability to travel as necessary to achieve goals.
What we offer
Some of our benefits and perks include:
- 28 days holidays (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 33 with service.
- Healthcare and Life Assurance.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave.
- Cycle to Work Scheme.
- Season Ticket Loan.
If you wish to apply, please send your CV and cover letter by the 30th November 2024 at midnight.
We thank you for your interest in this position but please note that we will only contact candidates chosen for further consideration.
Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.
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Head of Department, Arms and Armour employer: Bonhams
Contact Detail:
Bonhams Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department, Arms and Armour
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your extensive knowledge of antique arms and armour during networking events. Attend relevant exhibitions or auctions where you can meet collectors and dealers, as building these relationships is crucial for this role.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current market trends and historical context related to arms and armour. This will not only help you in discussions but also demonstrate your expertise when engaging with potential clients and vendors.
✨Tip Number 3
Consider reaching out to former colleagues or industry contacts who have experience in the auction sector. They may provide valuable insights or even referrals that could enhance your application.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlighting your leadership skills and ability to drive sales growth will be key in impressing the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department, Arms and Armour
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing your application, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Head of Department, Arms and Armour position. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in the auction industry and your knowledge of weaponry and armour.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should not only express your enthusiasm for the role but also demonstrate your understanding of Bonhams and its operations. Mention specific experiences that showcase your management skills and your ability to foster relationships with collectors and dealers.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasize your proven experience in the specialty field and any previous roles in the auction industry. Include details about your relationships with established dealers and collectors, as well as any successful projects or sales you've managed.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread both your CV and cover letter. Ensure there are no spelling or grammatical errors, and that your documents are well-organized and clearly formatted. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bonhams
✨Show Your Expertise
Make sure to demonstrate your deep understanding of antique arms and armour during the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific pieces, historical contexts, and market trends that showcase your knowledge and passion for the field.
✨Highlight Your Management Skills
As a Head of Department, you'll need to lead a small team effectively. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed a team, emphasizing your leadership style and how you maximize efficiency.
✨Network Like a Pro
Since building relationships with collectors and dealers is crucial, come prepared with insights on your existing network. Discuss how you plan to leverage these connections to benefit Bonhams and grow the department.
✨Prepare for Budget Discussions
Be ready to talk about your experience with budgeting and financial management. Highlight any past successes in maintaining budgeted commission levels and how you can apply those skills to ensure the department's financial health.
