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- Tasks: Lead and develop strategies for auction and private sales in the art world.
- Company: Christie’s, the world’s largest Art Business with a rich history.
- Benefits: Generous leave, health insurance, retirement plans, and exclusive art access.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team and make an impact in the art industry.
- Qualifications: Bachelor’s in Art History and 10 years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Christie’s, the world’s largest Art Business, is an incredibly exciting & enriching place to start or continue your career. Whether you work within one of our Specialist Art Departments, or in one of our more Operational teams, we are all working together with one common goal in mind: to continue the success of this 250 year old company, steeped in history, bringing fresh ideas whilst not forgetting our shared values; Integrity, Excellence, Innovation, Responsibility & Relationships. Colleagues across all departments are truly passionate about what they do and it is inspiring to work with industry leaders across our business.
- Develop business contacts and strategic opportunities, including developing auction and private sale strategies globally
- Identify and maintain relationships with collectors, dealers and institutions
- Participate in deal making and ensure the right people are involved and fully briefed
- Oversee the junior members of the department and partner with the Business Manager to ensure their development is managed
- Participate in departmental hilling sessions
- Oversee cataloguing and catalogue lots when required for the global sales and produce condition reports
- Write and prepare catalogue essays
- Contribute to the curation of sale catalogues e.g. production and layout
- Participate in pre-selling upcoming auctions
- Be a key leader in activities that support the smooth running of sales e.g. interest meetings, supporting the view, any exhibition requirements and post-sale debriefs
- Provide subject matter expertise on pricing, valuations, cataloguing, researching etc.
- Share own expertise for development of junior colleagues
- Use own specialist expertise (writing articles, lecturing etc.) to maintain and grow Christie’s presence in the market, grow its market awareness and create competitive advantage
- Function as liaison with Estates, Appraisals & Valuations and Heritage & Taxation
- Act as client liaison and provide reactive support for London valuations and proposals for Old Master Drawings
- Other duties as assigned by Manager
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Art History or Decorative Arts equivalent
- Minimum of 10 years’ experience in field of expertise
- Be attentive to detail and capable of working with a dynamic international team
- Commercial and business awareness and ability to market to a sophisticated audience
- Demonstrated ability in appraising property and business-getting with high level clients
- Demonstrative sale expertise, transactional capability, keen negotiator
- Excellent communications skills and interpersonal skills
- Exceptional client service skills
- Strong organisational skills with an ability to work to tight deadlines
- Research skills including analysis and interpretation of data
- Project management skills
Benefits:
- 25 days annual leave + 1 day Birthday leave
- Christie’s Christmas office closure (guaranteed between 25th Dec – 1st Jan) – in addition to annual leave: almost two weeks to fully switch off and spend time with friends and family
- Additional 1 week’s annual leave within the year of a 5-year anniversary i.e. 5th, 10th, 15th and so on
- Volunteering day: Take an additional day of annual leave to volunteer for a charitable organisation that’s important to you
- Donation matching of up to £500 per annum to help you support the organisations you care about
- Flexible Fitness Fund - £400 per year expense allowance for health and wellness related activity (taxable)
- Access to world-renowned art: with regular exhibitions in our galleries to wander around and exclusive guided tours hosted by specialist colleagues
- Discretionary Bonus (dependent on the business and employee performance payable in March each year)
- Generous retirement plan: We will double match your pension contribution up to 5% of your basic salary (Max 10% contribution from Christie’s)
- Private Health Insurance – no employee contribution needed, subsidised for other family members
- Dental Insurance – (may be extended at personal cost)
- Generous Income Protection Insurance in the event of accident, sickness or injury after 12 months
- Competitive Life Insurance policy from first day
- Employee Assistance Programme – access to personal advice and support services including counselling
- Eyecare vouchers (once a year)
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Christie’s Extras – discounts on over 800 retailers, holiday packages, dinners and weekly shops
- Seniorcare by Lottie, a comprehensive eldercare solution
- Robust family first policy
Christie’s is the world’s leading art business. Since 1766, we are known for our extraordinary art, unparalleled service and expertise, as well as international glamour. Every year, we offer around 350 live and online auctions in over 80 specialist categories – including all areas of fine and decorative arts, Asian art and luxury collectables – as well as a long and successful history of private sales.
Specialist, British Drawings & Watercolours and Old Master Drawings (Maternity Cover) employer: Christie´s
Contact Detail:
Christie´s Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist, British Drawings & Watercolours and Old Master Drawings (Maternity Cover)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend art events, exhibitions, and auctions to meet industry leaders and potential colleagues. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare to discuss your knowledge of British drawings and watercolours in detail during interviews. We want to see your passion and how you can contribute to Christie's legacy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. This will help us feel more confident and articulate when discussing our skills and experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you're genuinely interested in being part of the Christie’s team.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist, British Drawings & Watercolours and Old Master Drawings (Maternity Cover)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Art: When writing your application, let your love for art shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your enthusiasm and knowledge in the field. We want to see how you connect with the art world and what drives you.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight relevant experience, especially in appraising property and working with high-level clients. We appreciate when candidates take the time to align their skills with our needs.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant to the role. We value effective communication, so make sure your writing reflects that!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Christie´s
✨Know Your Art History
Brush up on your knowledge of British drawings, watercolours, and Old Master drawings. Be prepared to discuss specific artists, movements, and pieces that are relevant to the role. This will show your passion and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Networking Skills
Since developing business contacts is key, think of examples where you've successfully built relationships with collectors or institutions. Share how you can leverage these connections for Christie's, demonstrating your commercial awareness and ability to market effectively.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Anticipate questions about auction strategies and deal-making. Think through how you would approach a specific sale or catalogue preparation. This will help you articulate your thought process and problem-solving skills during the interview.
✨Highlight Leadership Experience
As this role involves overseeing junior members, be ready to discuss your leadership style and any mentoring experiences. Share specific instances where you've guided others, showcasing your ability to develop talent within a team.
