At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive revenue for Private Sales and manage financial deals in the art world.
- Company: Join Sotheby’s, a prestigious auction house with a rich history since 1744.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced, creative industry.
- Why this job: Be part of a global team shaping the future of art sales and luxury objects.
- Qualifications: Degree level education and experience in finance or business support roles.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
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.
Key Objectives:
- Business partner to the UK and Europe Global Fine Art departments focused on driving revenue for Private Sales via P&L and pipeline management.
- Accountable for consignment and sale execution along with structuring financial deals and corresponding legal agreements.
- Manage volume, deal complexity and client expectations whilst keeping corporate profitability targets in the forefront.
- Control financial concessions to maximize recoveries to increase profit and mitigate risk.
Responsibilities Include:
Financial- Partner with relationship managers and senior business getters to drive sales and revenue stream accountability using the consignment pipeline tool; accountable for tracking deal movement on weekly basis with reference to the overall annual goals.
- Responsible for pipeline presentation and discussion with heads of departments, specialists, and relationship managers.
- Oversee and lead consignments from negotiations until final settlement, with oversight from senior Business Management where appropriate.
- Budget planning preparation in partnership with GM, head of sale and/or head of department.
- Partner with financial analyst for (1) month end close (2) forecasting (3) general ongoing P&L maintenance.
- Develop financial models/scenarios to support deals for all revenue streams; approve/escalate for commercial team approval where appropriate.
- Translate financial results and KPIs into operational recommendations to optimize the business.
- Deal related cost review and approval.
- Private Sales incentive review/approval/accountability, where appropriate.
- Work with Pre and Post sale on Sale settlement to maintain a high-level oversight.
- Oversee private sale exhibition calendar and execution of corresponding shows in EMEA as well as any potential pop-up projects within the region from a financial planning perspective.
- In partnership with operations manage department inventory.
- Assisting with various PSS issues where there are financial impacts (e.g. shipping, export licenses, tax(es), etc).
- Oversight of templated legal agreements drafted by pre-sale administration.
- Partner with legal on all contract negotiations (consignment, introductory commission, vendor, consultant); escalating to senior business management where appropriate.
- Point of contact/escalation for Tax, VAT, Taxe Forfetaire, etc.
- Research potential additional revenue streams and/or type of property offered for long term strategy and growth in collaboration with the GM.
- Build and support presentation of post-sale reports and/or other-directed analysis with input from business intelligence, as appropriate.
- Review and approval of all sale, dept costs as well as business getter travel expenses.
- In partnership with GM, propose, manage, and implement efficiencies, integration and adoption for new IT and digital improvements aligned to overall responsibilities.
- Educated to Degree level (MBA or other post graduate business-related qualifications are an advantage).
- Post qualification business experience, ideally in a financial or business support role.
- Excellent math and numeracy skills with deep understanding of financial terminology.
- A solid understanding of the art world, and ideally experience in an international auction house.
- Ability to communicate at all seniority levels; strong communication skills as it relates to delivering key financial commentary on sales budget, forecast, and achievements to both senior management and specialist departments.
- Ability to work under pressure and to very tight deadlines.
- Capable of pro-actively manage own workload with minimal supervision.
- Confident team player, capable of working well independently and as part of a busy team.
- Highly organized, detail oriented, multi-tasker.
- Creative problem solver, energetic and persistent.
- Excellent Microsoft Office skills; fluent in Excel, insightful author of complex formulas.
- Fluent in English, other European languages would be an advantage.
Business Manager, Private Sales, EMEA, Maternity Cover in London employer: Sotheby's
Sotheby’s is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of London, where creativity and financial acumen converge in the world of art and luxury. With a commitment to employee growth, Sotheby’s provides opportunities for professional development and collaboration with industry leaders, all while fostering a culture of inclusivity and innovation. Join us to be part of a prestigious legacy that values your contributions and supports your career aspirations in a vibrant and historic setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Business Manager, Private Sales, EMEA, Maternity Cover in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the art and finance sectors. Attend industry events, exhibitions, or even online webinars. The more people you know, the better your chances of landing that Business Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Sotheby’s and its Private Sales division. Understand their recent sales, market trends, and financial strategies. This will show your genuine interest and help you stand out during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to discuss how your skills in financial analysis and deal structuring can drive revenue for Sotheby’s. Tailor your examples to highlight your problem-solving abilities and experience in high-pressure environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Sotheby’s team. Good luck!
We think you need these skills to ace Business Manager, Private Sales, EMEA, Maternity Cover in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Business Manager role. Highlight your experience in financial management and any relevant skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to our Private Sales team!
Showcase Your Analytical Skills:Since this role involves a lot of financial analysis, don’t shy away from showcasing your analytical prowess. Include examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes in your previous roles. We love a good problem solver!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the heart of your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands. Plus, it shows us you're keen on joining the Sotheby’s family!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sotheby's
✨Know Your Numbers
As a Business Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key financial metrics and be ready to discuss how you've used data to drive revenue in previous roles. Prepare examples of how you've managed P&L and pipeline management effectively.
✨Understand the Art World
Familiarise yourself with Sotheby’s selling categories and recent trends in the art market. Being able to speak knowledgeably about contemporary art, auctions, and private sales will show your passion and understanding of the industry, which is crucial for this role.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills. Think of scenarios where you've had to manage complex deals or client expectations. Be ready to explain your thought process and the outcomes of your decisions, showcasing your analytical skills.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
This role requires strong communication across various levels. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare to discuss how you've effectively communicated financial results and recommendations to senior management and other departments in the past.
