At a Glance
- Tasks: Support auction specialists and manage client relationships throughout the sale cycle.
- Company: Join Bonhams, a leading global auction house with a rich heritage.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, healthcare, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team in the exciting world of auctions and art.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and excellent communication abilities are essential.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with opportunities to collaborate across departments.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
About the Bonhams Network
Founded in , Bonhams is a global network of auction houses, with the largest number of international salerooms, offering the widest range of collecting categories and selling at all price points. Bonhams is recognised for its bespoke service, and a dedication to local market relationships, enhanced by a global platform. With salerooms, Bonhams presents over sales annually, across more than specialist categories, including fine art, collectables, luxury, wine & spirits, and collector cars. In , Bonhams added four international auction houses to its network: Bukowskis, Stockholm; Bruun Rasmussen, Copenhagen; Cornette de Saint Cyr, Paris and Brussels; and Skinner, Massachusetts. The success of Bonhams’ global strategy is a result of recognising the shift in growing intercontinental buying and increased digital engagement.
About the Department
The Furniture, Works of Art, Carpet and Tapestries department is based in our Montpelier street saleroom and holds seven sales a year, five online sales held in Knightsbridge, consisting of: The Connoisseurs Library sale, two Homes & Interiors sales, The Grand Tour sale and a Vernacular Furniture, Folk and Naïve Art sale, as well as two Fine Decorative Arts sales, which are both live and held in our New Bond Street saleroom during Classics weeks in July and late November/early December. The department works closely with their colleagues in the Classical arts departments (The Classics) as well as the House Sales and Private Collections department. You will primarily be based in Montpelier Street but will also be required to work in our warehouse, currently in Oxfordshire and in New Bond Street.
About the Role
The Sale Coordinator is an integral role in the expert department, supporting the Specialists in the successful delivery of auctions as well as the day to day running of the department.
Key Tasks & Responsibilities
- You will be the department’s experienced user of Auctioneer, Bonhams’ bespoke Auction Management System and primary business tool.
- You will be responsible for managing clients and their property throughout the sale cycle, including receipting property into A, generating and issuing consignment contracts, requesting and uploading client details and payment management.
- You will be the Department’s primary contact for a range of external stakeholders ranging from our clients to restorers and suppliers, escalating to your Specialists when required.
- You will help co-ordinate the movement of property throughout the sale cycle, working with regional offices, Shipping, Operations & Photography to ensure efficient and compliant stock transfer.
- You will work with Client Services, Operations and Shipping to support clients with after sale enquiries, including the resolution of payments and arranging shipping quotes for both purchased and unsold lots.
- You will support your Department with preparing valuations, condition reports and condition photography as required.
- As an important part of the Department, you will also support on many day to day auction activities and ensure the Department has all it needs to run smoothly and effectively. Tasks will include responding to client enquiries pre and post sale, bidding and event management.
Skills & Experience
- Strong time management and organisational ability
- Excellent communication in all modes with both internal and external stakeholders
- Ability to manage workflow and priorities in a fast-moving environment
- A flexible approach and a willingness to support Departments and teams outside of your core responsibilities
- Previous experience in an administrative position (not necessarily from an auction background)
What We Offer
Some of our benefits and perks include: days holidays (including Bank Holidays), increasing to with service, Healthcare.
Sale Coordinator (12 months FTC) in London employer: Bonhams
Contact Detail:
Bonhams Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Sale Coordinator (12 months FTC) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the auction and art world, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Bonhams and its departments. Understand their sales process and be ready to discuss how your skills can help streamline operations. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Sale Coordinator, you'll need to juggle various stakeholders. Role-play common scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence and refine your responses.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Bonhams team. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Sale Coordinator (12 months FTC) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Sale Coordinator role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, like your organisational abilities and communication skills. We want to see how you can bring value to our team!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about the auction industry and how your background makes you a great fit for Bonhams. Keep it engaging and personal – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Attention to Detail: In this role, attention to detail is key. Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. A polished application shows us that you take pride in your work and understand the importance of accuracy in our fast-paced environment.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of success. It’s super easy and ensures your application goes directly to us. Plus, you’ll get to explore more about Bonhams and what we stand for!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bonhams
✨Know Your Auction Basics
Before the interview, brush up on the basics of auction processes and Bonhams' unique selling points. Understanding their bespoke service and how they manage client relationships will show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
As a Sale Coordinator, you'll need to juggle multiple tasks. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed time and prioritised tasks. This will demonstrate your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication is key for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to prepare a few questions about the department's operations to show your proactive approach.
✨Be Flexible and Adaptable
The job requires a flexible approach, so be ready to discuss times when you've adapted to changing circumstances or supported teams outside your core responsibilities. This will highlight your team spirit and willingness to go the extra mile.