At a Glance
- Tasks: Join Bonhams to evaluate and authenticate high-end designer handbags and fashion items.
- Company: Bonhams, a leading auction house with over 230 years of expertise.
- Benefits: 28 days holiday, healthcare, eyecare vouchers, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Flexible work environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team in the luxury fashion auction market.
- Qualifications: Strong knowledge of designer brands and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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.
About the Department
Bonhams Designer Handbags & Fashion auctions offer high-end handbags, accessories and ready-to-wear fashion from names such as Hermès, Chanel and Louis Vuitton. We hold more than 15 auctions a year in London, Paris, Hong Kong and New York. Since opening in London in 2020, our department has sold some of the world's most exclusive designer items - including a record-breaking Hermès Birkin belonging to Jane Birkin, the bag's namesake, which achieved £119,000, and The Chanel Collection, a single-owner collection of 200 lots, all dedicated to pieces by Chanel. Bonhams is the market leader in handbags at auction.
About You
We’re looking for someone with great handbag and fashion knowledge of all the main brands, specifically Hermes, Chanel, Louis Vuitton and Christian Dior. You will be skilled at producing valuations for both high value pieces and large-scale collections, working at pace. You will have good market and trend awareness and will be able to prove business acumen. An ability to accurately authenticate most brands and design is required. Ideally, you will have a network of contacts to work with or you will be pro-active and can work towards building up such a portfolio. A functional working knowledge of the whole auction process and related procedure is highly preferred.
Key Tasks and Responsibilities
- Business getting for the department to fulfil the budgets set for the department sales
- Client valuations both in the office and off-site as necessary
- Carry out research, cataloguing of handbags and fashion, and condition reports
- Contribute to strategies to encourage new business opportunities for the department
- Maintain and support the ongoing development of a database of customers – both buyers and sellers – for the department
- Maintain contact with established collectors to encourage further business with the company, either as buyers or sellers
- Collaborate with the marketing department on the production of their campaigns, within the budgets set, to promote the business getting and sales activities of the department
- Assist on sale views and with evening events when required
- Provide the relevant information to the department sale coordinator to ensure contractual obligations are met
- Prepare proposal documents and work with the team on pitches for business
- Maintain an awareness of our competitors’ strategies to maintain the competitive position of this department in the market
Key Skills and Attributes
- Flexible and receptive to change
- Excellent time management and organisation skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills both written and oral
- Able to work as part of a team, and independently
- Excellent attention to detail
What We Offer
Some of our benefits and perks include:
- 28 days holidays (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 33 with service
- Healthcare
- Eyecare Voucher
If you wish to apply, please send your CV and cover letter by the 30th July 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.
Specialist (12-month Fixed Term Contract) 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 Specialist (12-month Fixed Term Contract) in London
✨Get in with Local Boutiques
Fashion isn't just about the big names; local boutiques are often on the lookout for temporary staff, especially during busy seasons. Pop in with your CV and a smile, chat with the staff, and show genuine interest – it can lead to an on-the-spot opportunity or, at the very least, a good contact!
✨Leverage Fashion Events
Fashion shows and local events are goldmines for networking. Attend as many as you can! Strike up conversations with fellow attendees, designers, or even models – you never know who might have a lead on temporary roles that aren't advertised yet.
✨Utilise Social Media Like a Pro
Follow brands and influencers in the fashion-apparel industry on social media. Engage with their content and stay updated on their hiring announcements. Many companies post about temporary positions on their Instagram or Twitter, so keep your eyes peeled!
✨Check Out Our Site for Temp Roles
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website for temp roles at companies like Bonhams. We regularly update our listings, and your best shot at landing something is to jump on it as soon as it drops – so keep checking!
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist (12-month Fixed Term Contract) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Style:In the fashion-apparel world, creativity and personal style are key! Make sure your CV and cover letter reflect your unique take on fashion—add a touch of personality, maybe even a mood board if you’re feeling adventurous. This is your chance to show how you’d fit into Bonhams's vibe!
Highlight Relevant Experience:For a temporary role, experience is everything. If you've worked in retail, styling, or even as a personal shopper, make sure to highlight that in your application. We want to see how your past experiences can benefit Bonhams during this short-term stint!
Include a Portfolio of Your Work:If you’ve got a portfolio—whether that's photos of your styling or designs—attach it! We love to see what you're capable of. It’s a great way to stand out, especially in temporary roles where you might need to make a quick impact at Bonhams.
Emphasise Your Adaptability:Temporary roles often require juggling different tasks and adapting to changing needs. In your application, mention instances where you’ve showcased flexibility and quick learning. Showing that you’re ready to jump right in will surely catch our eye at Bonhams.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bonhams
✨Show Off Your Style
In the fashion-apparel world, your personal style can speak volumes. Make sure to express your fashion sense in your outfit and show off any unique pieces that represent your style while keeping it professional. This gives the interviewers a glimpse of your creativity and flair.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
For a temporary role, it'll be essential to demonstrate your skills quickly. Have a well-curated portfolio that showcases your previous work, whether it's designs, styling, or merchandising. Be prepared to talk through your thought process and the impact your work has had in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Trend Talk
Expect questions about current fashion trends and how they relate to the brand Bonhams. Being able to discuss recent runway looks, sustainable practices, or trending colours will show your knowledge of the industry and that you’re up-to-date with what's happening in fashion.
✨Highlight Your Adaptability
In a temporary position, demonstrating that you can hit the ground running is key. Share experiences from previous roles where you've quickly adapted to new trends or tackled fast-paced environments. Your ability to be flexible shows that you're ready to contribute from day one!
