PRIMARY FUNCTION
Research and catalogue all works consigned to the Design sales in order to provide correct cataloguing and relevant academic essays for the sale catalogues.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
• Catalogue all Property on arrival (measurements, date, signature, labels) and input into auctiontools at company warehouse
• Handle the Property at the warehouse and de-frame works as necessary
• Source provenance, exhibition history and literature and input into auctiontools
• Co-ordinate all academic research for the Design Sales
• Responsible for all essay writing for the Design Sales
• Reach out to specialists and artist representatives (galleries/studios/foundations/estates/) for confirmation of cataloguing and authentication
• Proof all cataloguing, essays and image orientation for the sale catalogues and ensure the style guide is adhered to
• Maintain department files, excel files and internal databases
• Create detailed ‘selling packs’ using market research for all sales where relevant
• Source comparative images and quotes for confirmed works
• Obtain relevant copyright permission and ensure payment is made
• Ensure that copies of certificates of authenticity are kept on file and released appropriately after the sale
• Draw up saleroom condition reports in auctiontools
• Source remote cataloguing for all late arrivals
• Proof online and mini catalogues
• Assist specialists with research for potential consignments and as needed for business-getting initiatives (proposals, appraisals)
• Support specialists and department during the exhibition/previews prior to auctions
SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
• Excellent essay / academic writing skills
• Excellent organisation and time management skills
• Strong attention to detail alongside an exceptional level of accuracy
• Ability to communicate in a professional manner with a wide variety of people including superior written communication.
• Ability to prioritise effectively and adjust with change
• Ability to work to strict deadlines and in high pressure situations
• Ability to work individually on own initiative and as part of a team
• Ability to follow relevant processes for obtaining relevant permissions / payments relating to the property
• Ability to learn Phillips’ internal processes and systems
• Computer literate
• Minimum of two years professional experience within the same industry is essential
EDUCATION, TRAINING, AND EXPERIENCE
• Proven interest and an understanding of the department subject matter is essential
• Bachelor’s Degree in History of art or a related field essential
• Fluent English (spoken and written language) essential
• Additional languages desirable
WORKING CONDITIONS
• Work is undertaken within an office environment with frequent travel to the warehouse
• Occasional travel to libraries required
• Ability to work a flexible schedule that may include evening and weekend assignments
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties, but it aims to highlight the typical main responsibilities of the post. It may be reviewed at any time, in agreement with the post holder. You may be requested to undertake such other duties as may reasonably be required of you commensurate with your general level.
