AVP, Specialist, Photographs

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Synonymous with innovation, Sotheby’s promotes access, connoisseurship and preservation of fine art and rare objects through auctions, private sales and retail locations. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 50 categories, which include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, and Interiors, among many others.

 

THE ROLE

As Specialist and Head of Sale, you are an integral member of Sotheby’s highly regarded international Photographs team, working from consignment-getting through to auction and post-sale.

 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Working as a Specialist in Sotheby’s Photographs department in New York, you will focus on the following:

• Generate profitable business opportunities by evaluating and appraising works for auction, private sale, and marketplace
• Assess photographic material from the standpoints of historical/artistic importance, rarity, condition, and market value
• Provide estimates to clients and maintain close follow-up on property that has been estimated but not yet consigned for sale, as well as participate in large-scale valuations projects
• Negotiate sale terms, explain auction and/or private sale procedures, and provide seamless service to clients throughout the sale process
• Work proactively on client development to identify and cultivate relationships with new collectors as well as actively manage existing client relationships in order to enhance client loyalty and generate business
• Produce and manage department appraisal and proposal coordination
• Execute presale marketing strategies in conjunction with the Marketing department
• Assist with selling photographs in all sales in New York, London and Paris
• Generate Private Sales and Marketplace opportunities
• Mentor, motivate, and develop junior specialists – ensure integrity of expertise and talent retention

Working as Head of Sale in Sotheby’s Photographs department in New York, you will be responsible for the following:

• Oversee all aspects of presale execution:
  • Ensure cataloguing is to the highest standard and in accordance with scheduled deadlines
  • Initiate and run regular condition and estimate check sessions
  • Assure that all photography is completed in a timely manner
  • Research, write, and/or delegate catalogue entries
  • Proofread all catalogue entries, editorial, and associated marketing materials
  • Liaise with Web and Marketing teams to ensure sale catalogues are published as scheduled

 

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Direct hands-on experience with, and knowledge of, 19th-, 20th-, and 21st-century photographs
• A genuine passion for photography and the art market with at least 5-7 years work experience in either auction business, gallery, or museum/exhibit space
• A team player, comfortable working collaboratively with a small high-performing group
• Ability to maintain composure under pressure and good time management
• A proven ability to meet deadlines and the possession of good organisational skills
• Excellent communication skills – both spoken and written
• An understanding of Sotheby’s, its culture and services as well as of auction principles and practice
• Travel as needed for business-getting and appraisals

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $80,000-$120,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered. 

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.

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and trea