AVP, Specialist, American Art

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

Working as a Specialist in the Global Fine Arts Department in New York, this person will have the responsibility for business and client development to meet sales and profit targets in the American Art Department.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead mid to long term strategic initiatives to manage and grow American Art client base, working closely with the global department, the Fine Arts division, executive management, the business and client development teams
• Actively manage a portfolio of client relationships, identifying key business strategies for each client and executing against these strategies.
• Apply creativity, innovative thinking and resourcefulness to find new opportunities that will increase transactions on both consignment and selling side of the business.
• Secure consignments for sales across the category, working with business director to maximize deal margins.
• Working with all GFA specialists to sell property in sales by helping clients at the exhibition; speaking to clients about the property; develop, track and communicate client interest in lots; and execute bids at sale
• Collaborate across the Fine Art Division—including Impressionist & Modern, Contemporary, Latin American, and American Art. Drive innovation to reimagine sale platforms. Encourage experimentation.
• Develop buyers and contribute bids to each major auction.
• Conduct private treaty deals and selling exhibition transactions to grow the GFA private sales business.
• Build profile as a leading specialist in the field and develop a superior market expertise.
• Participate in department meetings, including estimating sessions, sourcing discussions and selling meetings.
• Coordinate and oversee proposals and appraisals where appropriate.
• Contribute to pre-sale duties, including catalogue research, cataloguing, proof-reading, color-proofing and exhibition set-up as needed.
• Encourage teamwork, collaboration and productivity, always leading by example.
• Regular domestic travel required
• Occasional weekend and evening hours

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Master’s degree or relative business experience
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in the category
• Broad knowledge of, exposure to, and network with American art collectors and dealers
• Proven track record of translating relationships into consignments and sales
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate passionately and persuasively
• Energetic self-starter and independent worker that can thrive in a fast-pace environment
• Team player who can collaborate productively and contribute to a common goal
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to see projects through from start to finish
• Demonstrates good judgment, discretion, and professionalism at all times

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.

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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 treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital