Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate pre-sale operations and ensure top-notch client service in a fast-paced environment.
- Company: Join Sotheby’s, the world’s leading destination for art and luxury since 1744.
- Benefits: Enjoy a dynamic work culture with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative industry that values inclusivity and creativity.
- Qualifications: Degree in business administration preferred; 3+ years in client service or business admin required.
- Other info: Ideal for tech-savvy individuals who thrive under pressure and love multi-tasking.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
ABOUT SOTHEBY'S Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which 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. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
THE ROLE Sotheby’s is looking for an experienced Pre-Sale Experience Coordinator to own the operational execution of sales in accordance with company policies and best practices while delivering high-quality client service. This dynamic role is ideal for a candidate who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys multi-tasking and organizational tasks whilst coordinating all key processes leading up to the sales. The successful candidate will support sales across a division (either Luxury, Fine Art, Art and Objects or Private sales).
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Collaborate with the wider business to address client enquiries, resolve client issues and execute client transactions to ensure the highest level of client satisfaction.
- Ensure all required legal and compliance documentation are on file including photo ID, proof of address, payment instructions and W8/9 forms.
- Liaise with clients and manage property throughout the sale cycle.
- Communicate with clients, shipping coordinators and overseas and regional offices to facilitate inbound shipments, obtain export licenses and arrange customs clearance in accordance with sale deadlines.
- Manage consignment agreements and terms of sale including requesting legal contracts, generating CLM contracts, tracking receipt of all contracts, IC disclosures and IC recipient contracts.
- Work closely with the Legal department and Business Manager/Director on sale agreements with complex, highly managed terms.
- Collaborate with the Business Manager/Director with regards to extended payment terms, guarantees and irrevocable bids, ensuring all due diligence requirements are met.
- Work with Specialists, Compliance and Shipping to track all outstanding compliance issues and ensure they are resolved according to catalogue and sale deadlines.
- Work with cataloguers to arrange for property to be authenticated, where necessary, in line with various committee deadlines.
- Coordinate the movement of property with shipping coordinators, cataloguers and sale coordinators internally and externally for third-party services (such as restorers, external experts, authentication committees, photographers).
- Manage starting bids, reserves and selling reserves for sales in ADM.
- Review pre-sale compliance reports (AML, ALR) and complete High-Value Lot (HVL) forms as necessary.
- Coordinate post-auction transactions including post-auction sales, account adjustments and cancelled sales.
- Obtain and action recommendations for unsold property and facilitate return to consignor shipment and/or collection.
- Process missed reserves.
- Follow pending buyer payments with Post-Sale to manage consignor expectations as it relates to late payment.
- Coordinate and facilitate the processing of private sales, including contract preparation and logistics whilst ensuring all due diligence has been completed.
- Monitor and process House Property and Temporary Admission (TA) property.
- Support Inactive Inventory Initiative and work closely with Specialist department and Operations to meet inventory targets.
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Degree in business administration or equivalent field preferred.
- At least 3+ years’ experience in business administration and/or client service.
- Exceptional client service skills including strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Competencies in legal, finance and/or project management.
- Operationally minded with an appetite for technology.
- Ability to multi-task, prioritize and manage challenging deadlines.
- Creative problem solver with ability to act quickly and effectively under pressure.
- Highly organized and detail oriented.
- Self-motivated, enthusiastic, and able to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office – prior experience with SAP or other Sotheby’s systems is preferable.
Pre Sale Experience Coordinator employer: Sotheby's
Contact Detail:
Sotheby's Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Pre Sale Experience Coordinator
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Sotheby’s auction processes and the specific requirements for pre-sale coordination. Understanding the nuances of client interactions and compliance documentation will give you an edge in discussions during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the art and luxury sectors, especially those who have experience with auction houses. Engaging with industry insiders can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your organisational skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed multiple tasks or projects under tight deadlines. Be ready to discuss these experiences in detail during your interview to showcase your ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current trends in the art and luxury markets, as well as Sotheby’s recent sales and initiatives. Being knowledgeable about the company’s recent activities will show your genuine interest and help you stand out as a candidate who is truly invested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Pre Sale Experience Coordinator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Pre Sale Experience Coordinator position at Sotheby’s. Understand the responsibilities and required skills to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in business administration and client service. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully managed client transactions or resolved issues in previous roles.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since exceptional verbal and written communication skills are crucial for this role, ensure that your application reflects your ability to communicate effectively. Use clear and concise language, and consider including a brief example of a successful client interaction.
Demonstrate Organisational Skills: Given the need for strong organisational abilities, highlight any relevant experiences where you successfully managed multiple tasks or projects simultaneously. This could include managing deadlines, coordinating with various teams, or handling complex documentation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sotheby's
✨Showcase Your Client Service Skills
As a Pre Sale Experience Coordinator, exceptional client service is key. Be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully resolved client issues or enhanced client satisfaction in your previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Organisational Skills
This role requires strong organisational abilities. Discuss specific strategies you use to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively, especially in fast-paced environments.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Legal and Compliance Processes
Understanding legal documentation and compliance is crucial for this position. Brush up on relevant terms and processes, and be ready to discuss how you've handled similar responsibilities in the past.
✨Highlight Your Tech Savviness
Sotheby’s values technology in their operations. Mention any experience you have with Microsoft Office, SAP, or other relevant systems, and express your enthusiasm for using technology to improve processes.
