Specialist Rare Books, Manuscripts - Auction House (maternity leave)

Our client is seeking an enthusiastic and knowledgeable Specialist to join its Rare Books, Manuscripts, Maps and Photography Department on a 12-month maternity cover contract. Based in Edinburgh, this is a fantastic opportunity for someone with a passion for rare and historical printed material to take an active role in one of the UK’s leading auction houses.

Working closely with the Head of Department, the Specialist will lead on sourcing and securing consignments, cataloguing items, managing specialist sales, and building strong relationships with clients across the UK and beyond. This role offers a unique blend of academic interest and commercial focus, ideally suited to someone with experience in the rare book or antiquarian trade.

Key Responsibilities:

• Source and secure consignments for three annual specialist sales

• Catalogue, research, and photograph rare books, manuscripts, and maps

• Build and maintain client relationships through valuations, visits, and events

• Oversee catalogue production and sale marketing in collaboration with internal teams

• Manage sale logistics including pre-sale preparation, sale room set-up, viewing supervision, and post-sale follow-up

• Contribute to auctioneering and online bidding activities

• Represent the department at book fairs and external events

• Assist with valuations for insurance and tax planning

Ideal Candidate:

• Prior knowledge or experience in rare books, manuscripts, or printed material

• Professional and confident when dealing with clients

• Strong research, writing, and organisational skills

• Comfortable working to deadlines in a fast-paced environment

• Excellent verbal and written communication

• A full clean driving licence is advantageous

This is an exciting role within a respected and dynamic team, offering the chance to work hands-on with exceptional material and contribute to the department’s continued success. The position offers a varied and rewarding workload with scope for professional development and networking within the rare book community.

Benefits include:

• 20 days annual leave plus 8 bank holidays

• Additional leave for Christmas closure and your birthday

• A supportive and collaborative work environment