At a Glance
- Tasks: Support media relations and promote Bonhams across UK media channels.
- Company: Join Bonhams, a leading auction house with over 230 years of expertise.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days holiday, healthcare, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity to grow in a collaborative and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping public perception in the art world.
- Qualifications: Strong communication skills and a passion for media relations.
About the Bonhams Network
Founded in 1793, Bonhams is one of the world's leading auction houses — defined by connection, and home to the curious.
With over 230 years of expertise, Bonhams operates a global network of trusted specialists across 24 countries, including flagship salerooms in London, New York, Paris and Hong Kong. Across more than 60 specialist categories, Bonhams serves collectors of every kind — from emerging to established — with the objects, stories and expertise that define their collecting journey.
Beyond auctions, Bonhams is both a destination for discovery and for industry-leading services and support. Its rotating programme of exhibitions and public programming is free and open to all, reflecting a longstanding commitment to curiosity, cultural conversation and the enduring power of objects.
For forthcoming auctions and details of specialist departments, visit Bonhams.com.
Bonhams: A house built on knowledge. Defined by connection. Home to the curious.
About the Department
Bonhams Press Department manages the auction house's media relations communication. It supports journalists and wider media by providing information on auctions, specialists, market trends, and company news, while ensuring consistent messaging that reflects Bonhams values. Through media enquiries, press releases, interviews, and strategic communications, the team plays a key role in shaping public perception and protecting and enhancing Bonhams reputation.
About the Role
The PR & Communications Assistant supports the UK Press & Communications team in promoting Bonhams across UK media, helping to strengthen the company's reputation as a leading global auction house.
Key responsibilities include:
Day to Day
- Assist with the day-to-day management of media enquiries, providing timely, accurate, and effective responses to support positive media relations.
- Provide administrative support to the wider global communications team when required.
- Coordinate press image requests, and media assets.
- Help maintain media contact databases and press distribution lists.
- Support with press previews, photo calls and auction events for the wider categories.
- Support the planning and execution of PR campaigns, media activities, and wider communications initiatives across key business categories, working closely with the PR & Communications Manager, UK, to ensure effective media engagement.
- Attending auctions and events, where appropriate, to facilitate media engagement and secure press coverage.
Media & Influencer Relations
- Build relationships with key UK media, journalists and digital influencers.
- Secure high-quality media coverage across traditional, online, and broadcast channels.
Content & Storytelling
- Preparing press materials for upcoming auctions.
- Collaborating with internal departments to support category-specific communications and campaign delivery.
- Ensure consistency of tone, style, and messaging across all communications.
- Liaise with marketing teams to align PR messaging with social strategies.
Monitoring & Measurement
- Monitoring and reporting on media coverage, campaign performance, and communications activity to provide business insights and performance tracking.
In addition to the tasks and responsibilities listed, you may be required to perform other duties as assigned by your Manager.
Key Skills & Experience
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- High level of organisation and attention to detail.
- Excellent time management and ability to meet tight deadlines.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
- Strong interpersonal skills and confidence working with journalists and internal stakeholders.
- Flexible, collaborative approach and willingness to support multiple projects simultaneously.
- Ability to handle confidential information professionally.
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 17th August 2026 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.
PR & Communications Assistant, UK in London employer: Bonhams
Bonhams is an exceptional employer located in Greater London, offering a vibrant work culture that values diversity and inclusion. Employees benefit from extensive holiday entitlement and comprehensive healthcare benefits, alongside opportunities for personal and professional growth within a dynamic team environment. Joining Bonhams means being part of a prestigious organisation where your contributions are valued and recognised.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land PR & Communications Assistant, UK in London
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We think you need these skills to ace PR & Communications Assistant, UK in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
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How to prepare for a job interview at Bonhams
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