THE ROLE
This person will work on cataloguing and coordinating sales in the Old Master Paintings department.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with cataloguing and researching items for the Old Master sales, encompassing European paintings from the late 13th to 19th centuries:
- Independently researching and cataloguing objects to the highest standard while also meeting strict scheduled deadlines
- Corresponding with and establishing relationships with external experts, while also following up on all outstanding research inquiries
- Writing condition reports for the lots on offer
- Working with the cataloguing and business-getting team on all aspects of sale production including cataloguing, digital catalogue production, lot order finalization, proofreading, color-checking, producing marketing material and editorial content, assisting with exhibition layout and set-up, staffing exhibitions, and helping to target potential bidders
- General department support, including answering phones, and helping with day-to-day client enquiries at the front desk, through the online inquiry portal, by email and on the telephone
- Maintaining excellence in client service when responding to estimate enquiries, general correspondence and photo requests
- Developing and managing client relationships
- Assisting the senior experts with the research of paintings for auction, fair market and insurance valuations, proposals, and others
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Bachelor’s Degree required, ideally in relevant area of study/interest
- Education in Art History, preferably, but not exclusively, with a Northern Baroque area of specialization (BA and some graduate coursework required; MA, MPhil, or PhD preferred)
- Strong experience in Old Masters, ideally in an auction environment
- Excellent research, organization, interpersonal, and communication skills
- Proven capacity to prioritize multiple highly important processes and responsibilities in a high-pressured environment while meeting constant deadlines
- Ability to work effectively both individually and as a team, while also pitching in to provide senior members of staff and colleagues with support
- Commitment to an exemplary level of client service
- Demonstrates a strong record in client relationship management and a sensitive approach to problem solving
- Possesses high levels of integrity and discretion in line with Sotheby’s corporate governance and legal framework
- Self-motivated and proactive
- Knowledge of at least one other European language
- Requires on-site presence, as well as flexibility in work hours as needed
The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $52,000-$60,000. 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.
