Books Cataloguer
ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which 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. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
THE ROLE
The function of this role is to support the Books and Manuscripts Department in New York including, but not limited to, coordinating and cataloguing both live and online sales with accompanying print and digital catalogues, assistance with large-scale appraisals and business getting. Additionally, general assistance is required for all specialists and consultants in the department.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Assist with the evaluation of works for auction and appraisal purposes, including responses to phone, written, and online platform estimate requests
- Work with specialists on valuations and close follow-up on property that has been estimated but not yet consigned for sale
- Assist specialist in securing consignments of property for sale at auction, including client correspondence, preparation of auction estimate listings, and writing, proofreading, and coordination of proposals
- Liaise with the department coordinator to maintain running lists of property already consigned, potential future consignments, as well as client and consignment files and records
- Conduct research, especially to establish provenance, publication and exhibition history of consigned or appraised property, maintaining the highest standard of completeness and accuracy; and consistent presentation of this information for auction catalogues and private sale presentations
- Write and proofread for catalogue notes and essays, maintaining the highest standard of quality
- In conjunction with the department coordinator and head of department, assist with catalogue production including:
- Entering and editing catalogue text in ADM, ensuring catalogue data is accurate and recorded in a timely manner
- Liaising with Catalogue Production and other support departments, such as Central Receiving and Photo
- Assisting with shoot lists, layout, and the ordering of sales
- Coordinate and manage sale related responsibilities, including condition reports, assisting with exhibition design and set-up, staffing exhibitions and assisting prospective clients, conducting underbid recording and bidding
- Promote auctions leading up to each sale date including outreach
- Coordinate and manage sellers and their property through the pre- and post-sale processes
- Partner with other business areas to respond to client inquiries, resolve client issues and execute client transactions to ensure the highest level of client satisfaction
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field
- Three years’ experience in a related field, with an auction background preferred
- Excellent communication and client service skills
- Excellent organizational skills including ability to multi-task and prioritize
- High level of attention to detail
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Outlook, Word and Excel
- Good working knowledge of SAP, MARQ, ADM, and Brightspot preferred
- Enthusiasm and willingness to broaden knowledge
- Flexibility to work overtime and weekend hours when necessary
- Proven administrative and/or relevant experience is desirable
The proposed base salary for this position is $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.
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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 or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.
Perks and Benefits
Health and Wellness
Parental Benefits
Work Flexibility
Office Life and Perks
Vacation and Time Off
Financial and Retirement
Professional Development
Diversity and Inclusion