At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive revenue growth by sourcing new lending opportunities and developing tailored client solutions.
- Company: Join Sotheby’s, a prestigious leader in art and luxury asset financing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Exciting career path with a focus on collaboration and creativity.
- Why this job: Be part of an innovative team at the intersection of art and finance.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in client-facing roles; strong communication and analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 120000 £ 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.
Sotheby’s Financial Services (SFS) enables clients to unlock the liquidity in their fine art and collectible assets through technology and innovation. With the spirit of a fintech startup, the stability of a large established organization, and its position at the center of the art ecosystem, the SFS team unites around the goal of leading the future of art financial services. We have a bold and exciting journey ahead, and we can't wait to make it happen together.
THE ROLE You will be a core member of the SFS team responsible for loans originated in the UK and EMEA, promoting the SFS value proposition internally with colleagues and externally with clients. As a driven team player, you will serve in a priority growth area for Sotheby’s, expanding clients’ relationship with Sotheby’s and offering clients a key value-added financing service.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Revenue Growth
- Proactively source new lending opportunities by partnering with Sotheby’s relationship managers and other internal stakeholders.
- Analyze client’s needs and objectives through the review of qualitative and quantitative data, synthesizing an engagement strategy and initiating internal discussions about the opportunity.
- Develop pitch book presentations and proposals to explain industry trends, discuss client options and recommend innovative strategies to meet client goals.
- Tailor lending solutions to ensure that client’s needs are optimized while meeting return and risk requirements.
- Participate in structuring and negotiating transactions, coordinating the preparation of lending documentation and transaction execution.
- As you progress in this role, you will build on a base of expertise to assume responsibility for client relationships and serve as the primary client liaison within SFS.
- Work collaboratively with executive management to identify and execute new growth initiatives.
- Deal Management
- Partner with senior lending specialists to guide clients through the financing process.
- Participate in client negotiations from initial lead stage through final deal terms negotiation.
- Facilitate the creation of origination proposals and supporting financial analytics.
- Collaborate cross-functionally with Sotheby’s and SFS teams to ensure smooth processing and servicing of loans.
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Bachelor’s degree required; MBA a plus.
- 5+ years of professional experience in a client-facing lending, wealth management, or similar role with a focus on sales and relationship building and management.
- Individuals with prior experience as relationship managers at major auction houses and galleries is a plus.
- Charisma, professional demeanor, and a natural ability to connect with others internally and externally.
- Solution-oriented and self-directed mindset and work approach with a bias towards action.
- Strong logical and analytical skills.
- Strong written and oral communication abilities.
- Prior art experience is not required, but an interest or curiosity in art or other luxury objects is encouraged.
Director, Lending Specialist in London employer: the company
Sotheby’s is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at its new global headquarters in the iconic Breuer building on Madison Avenue, New York City. With a strong focus on employee growth and collaboration, Sotheby’s Financial Services fosters a culture of innovation and creativity, empowering team members to drive revenue growth while providing valuable financial solutions to clients in the art and luxury sectors. Employees benefit from a unique blend of stability and entrepreneurial spirit, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the art financial services industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Lending Specialist in London
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like the company. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Lending Specialist in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to the company.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on the company's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at the company
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with the company.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at the company will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former the company employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.