At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage the safe and timely movement of fine art property pre- and post-sale.
- Company: Bonhams, a global leader in the auction industry since 1793.
- Benefits: 28 days holiday, healthcare, life assurance, and enhanced parental leave.
- Other info: Inclusive work environment with opportunities for career growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make an impact in the art and auction world.
- Qualifications: Degree or relevant experience in customer-focused roles; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the Bonhams Network
Founded in 1793, 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 14 salerooms, Bonhams presents over 1,000 sales annually, across more than 60 specialist categories, including fine art, collectables, luxury, wine & spirits, and collector cars. In 2022, 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 Role
The Shipping Manager will provide support to the London Team to support the safe, timely and cost-effective movement of fine art property pre- and post-sale. They will help manage relevant paperwork, export licences, CITES permits and other documents for import and export, working closely with the Specialist Departments, Finance, UKVAT and Legal departments to ensure Bonhams are operating in an organised and compliant manner in relation to all areas of shipping. They will work with 3rd party shippers, managing their performance, ensuring their compliance, and cost efficiency, and provide advice and support to internal teams where required.
In your role as Shipping Manager you will be required to carry out the following:
- Provide daily management / administration of import notifications from 3PLs & internal teams
- Assist in maintaining Bonhams import and export databases and ensure continuous standards are maintained
- Work to ensure Bonhams are always compliant and audit ready
- Provide detailed TA import instructions and maintain TA compliant records, working closely with UKVAT
- Provide a source of import/export information and advice to Specialist Departments, Legal and Finance teams
- Obtain copies, track and manage import entries for Bonhams, working closely with UKVAT
- Match import shipments against A3 contracts and add import entry details, working closely with UKVAT
- Obtain export licences, carnets and CITES permits for import and exports shipments
- Support property movement for touring and special exhibitions
- Manage consolidated shipments between key Bonhams hubs
- Partner with other regional shipping teams and Departments to support property movement
- Provide quotes for internal and pre- or post-sales shipping, alongside co-ordination with 3PLs
- Check costs and authorise 3PL invoices on eBis
- Review and drive down shipping costs
In addition to the tasks and responsibilities listed, you may be required to perform other duties as assigned by your Manager.
Key Skills and Experience
- Ideally you will be educated to degree standard, or you will have experience working in a customer focused role within the art, auction or shipping industries
- Fluent in English (other languages would be helpful)
- Customer experience preferred
- Have excellent communication skills both written and verbal and will be able to present information in a clear and concise manner both in writing and on Teams
- You must have good reasoning skills and be able to analyse data and prepare reports
- Able to negotiate and influence across the organisation and with external stakeholders
- You will be required to work with industry standard computer packages such as Microsoft Word, Excel, Powerpoint
- Demonstrable experience in navigating organisational structures
What We Offer
- 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 3rd March 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.
Shipping Manager UK in London employer: Bonhams
Bonhams is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where employees are encouraged to grow and develop their skills within the prestigious art and auction industry. With a strong commitment to employee well-being, Bonhams provides generous benefits such as enhanced holiday allowances, healthcare, and family leave, fostering a culture of inclusivity and support. The Shipping Manager role not only allows for meaningful contributions to the movement of fine art but also offers opportunities to collaborate with diverse teams and engage in a global network of auction houses.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Shipping Manager UK in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the shipping and auction industries, especially those connected to Bonhams. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you an interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your experience in managing shipping logistics, compliance, and cost efficiency. This will help you stand out during interviews and showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a role at Bonhams that fits, don’t wait for the perfect moment. Apply through our website and follow up with a friendly email to express your enthusiasm. It shows initiative and keeps you on their radar.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the interview! Research Bonhams' recent sales and shipping practices. Being knowledgeable about their operations will impress the hiring team and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Shipping Manager UK in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that are relevant to the Shipping Manager role. Highlight any previous work in shipping, art, or auction houses, and don’t forget to mention your customer-focused experience!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for Bonhams. Mention specific experiences that relate to the key tasks and responsibilities listed in the job description.
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and concise. Use proper grammar and structure, and don’t hesitate to showcase your ability to present information effectively.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Bonhams team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Bonhams
✨Know Your Shipping Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the specific import/export regulations relevant to fine art. Understanding CITES permits and export licences will show that you’re serious about compliance, which is crucial for the Shipping Manager role.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare to demonstrate your excellent communication abilities. Be ready to discuss how you've effectively collaborated with various departments in previous roles, as this will be key in working with Specialist Departments and external stakeholders.
✨Be Data Savvy
Brush up on your data analysis skills. You might be asked how you would manage shipping costs or track import entries, so having examples of how you've used data to drive decisions in past roles will set you apart.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Think of insightful questions to ask about the Shipping Manager position and Bonhams' operations. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
