Specialist, Impressionist & Modern ArtLondon

About Sotheby's Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby’s new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

The Role To be responsible for new business generation in the Impressionist & Modern Art department, focused on the middle market, and for the solicitation, authentication, evaluation and sale of property in order to meet the total departmental sales and profit targets. To catalogue, research and help co-ordinate the Impressionist & Modern Art Day sales, and assist in the general day-to-day functions of the department. Close co-operation and good communications with colleagues in the department. Using national and international networks to ensure a consistent, client focused message, delivering a high standard of active client management. Candidate will demonstrate extensive knowledge, passion and commitment to the field, be willing to travel and will have in-depth experience of the art auction business.

Responsibilities

• Play a key role in sourcing property, including overseas travel and client visits as appropriate.
• Business getting and negotiation, meeting sales and net profit targets for particular sales.
• Generating and nurturing strategic, long term-business development.
• Key role in selling works to global clients.
• Mentor junior members of the team, ensuring that skills and knowledge are passed on to and shared with all members of the department.
• Cataloging and researching items for the Impressionist & Modern Day sales and working with other members of the department to ensure this is carried out to the highest standards according to scheduled deadlines.
• Maintaining an exceptionally high level of client service, both internally and externally (colleagues and public).
• Operating at all times in accordance with the company’s rules on compliance and corporate governance.
• Facilitating private treaty sales where appropriate.
• Preparation of proposals.
• Preparation of valuations for Insurance etc.
• Maintain high levels of expertise and professionalism in all activities.

Ideal Experience & Competencies

• Degree holder or equivalent (Art related masters preferable).
• 6+ years of professional experience, ideally from the art world in an auction house, gallery, or museum.
• 2+ years in a client-facing sales position preferred.
• Preferred Specialist with knowledge of Impressionist & Modern Art, contextual literature and authentication procedures.
• Foreign language skills required, minimum one European language, German preferred.
• Overall awareness of Sotheby’s services (e.g. Financial Services).
• Functional working knowledge of the whole auction process and related procedures.
• Proven business acumen and fully developed valuation skills.
• Flexible and receptive to change.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• High level of IT capability (i.e. ability to independently use Sotheby’s IT systems).