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- Tasks: Lead a global team in restitution, managing research and resolving ownership claims.
- Company: Join Sotheby’s, a prestigious name in the art world with a strong reputation.
- Benefits: Enjoy opportunities for international travel and networking at global events.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in art restitution while collaborating with experts and clients.
- Qualifications: 10+ years in restitution, JD or legal qualification required, fluent in German.
- Other info: Position available in London, Germany, or Paris; must be a team player.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
Social network you want to login/join with: SVP, Global Head of Restitution., London col-narrow-left Client: Sotheby’s Location: London, United Kingdom Job Category: Other – EU work permit required: Yes col-narrow-right Job Reference: 2722afbeb06b Job Views: 3 Posted: 02.06.2025 Expiry Date: 17.07.2025 col-wide Job Description: The Global Head of Restitution leads the worldwide team and has a significant public profile, acting as an ambassador for Sotheby’s and representing our market leading position and strong reputation in the field for restitutions. RESPONSIBLITIES Drive the strategy for the Restitution Department Globally, managing the team. Oversee and direct workflow of Sotheby’s Global Restitution department’s research to prevent stolen objects from circulating in the art market and, in particular, resolving provenance issues of any item with ownership claims from the Nazi-era. Collaborate with business getters and cataloguers in each affected expert department to vet and research artworks being appraised, prospected or sold. Provide guidance and training to art specialists and other colleagues at Sotheby’s on policies surrounding stolen art and objects with Nazi-era provenance. Represent Sotheby’s and Sotheby’s Restitution as an ambassador at events including lectures and conferences globally. Organize Sotheby’s hosted events and educational seminars focusing on the nuances and scholarship in this area. Develop and maintain relationships with relevant lawyers, researchers and government bodies in the restitution field. Generate incremental business through research and contacts, specifically lawyers, heirs, museums and researchers. Publish articles in relevant magazines and be a recognised expert in the field. Work directly with clients and their advisors to navigate and resolve claims. Facilitate settlements between consignors and claimants and lead any sale claims management. Partner with colleagues to oversee compliance around source of funds. Act as a member of the Sotheby’s Ethics Committee. IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES 10+ years of relevant experience in restitution and provenance research and business development JD or international legal degree or qualification required. While the Global Head of Restitution will not be practicing law, the role must understand the complexity of the legal issues involved. This role requires connections in the Restitution field (lawyers, government bodies), business getting experience, proven research skills, client and stakeholder management, presentation skills and press training. Fluency in German, with working knowledge of French The successful candidate must be a team player, able to work in a collaborative environment and have excellent communication skills. Ability to travel internationally frequently Please note that we are also willing to hire in Germany or Paris To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the US, please click here . To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the UK, Hong Kong, France and Switzerland, please click here . #J-18808-Ljbffr
SVP, Global Head of Restitution. employer: Sotheby’s
Contact Detail:
Sotheby’s Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land SVP, Global Head of Restitution.
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the restitution and provenance research field. Attend relevant conferences, seminars, and events where you can meet key players, including lawyers and researchers, to build relationships that could benefit your application.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on current trends and legal developments in restitution. Subscribe to industry publications and follow thought leaders on social media to enhance your knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and driving strategy. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully led projects or initiatives in the past, particularly those related to art, law, or restitution.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your language skills, especially fluency in German and working knowledge of French. Being multilingual can set you apart from other candidates and is particularly valuable in a global role like this one.
We think you need these skills to ace SVP, Global Head of Restitution.
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in restitution and provenance research. Emphasise any leadership roles you've held, particularly those that demonstrate your ability to manage teams and drive strategy.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the field of restitution and your understanding of its complexities. Mention specific experiences that showcase your skills in client management, business development, and collaboration with legal entities.
Showcase Your Expertise: If you have published articles or have been involved in significant projects related to restitution, be sure to mention these in your application. This will help establish your credibility as a recognised expert in the field.
Highlight Language Proficiency: Since fluency in German and working knowledge of French are required, make sure to clearly state your language skills in your application. If you have used these languages in a professional context, provide examples.
How to prepare for a job interview at Sotheby’s
✨Showcase Your Expertise
As the Global Head of Restitution, you'll need to demonstrate your extensive knowledge in restitution and provenance research. Prepare to discuss specific cases you've worked on, highlighting your problem-solving skills and how you've navigated complex legal issues.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
This role requires working closely with various departments and stakeholders. Be ready to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams in the past, particularly in high-stakes environments involving art and legal matters.
✨Prepare for Ethical Discussions
Given the nature of the role, you may be asked about ethical dilemmas related to restitution. Think about scenarios where you've had to balance business interests with ethical considerations, and be prepared to articulate your thought process.
✨Demonstrate Your Public Speaking Ability
As an ambassador for Sotheby’s, public speaking will be a key part of your role. Practice discussing your vision for the Restitution Department and be ready to present it confidently, as you may be asked about your approach to representing the company at events.
