VP, Global Head of Shipping
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 Head of Global Shipping will design, implement, and lead Sotheby’s worldwide shipping strategy, ensuring the secure, efficient, and compliant transport of high-value art, collectibles, and luxury assets across all regions. This leader will set global standards for shipping operations, champion best practices, and drive continuous innovation in carrier partnerships, packaging protocols, customs compliance, and client experience. The Head of Global Shipping will balance global strategic vision with operational execution, ensuring that Sotheby’s reputation for excellence, integrity, and client service is upheld at every stage of the shipping journey.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Global Strategy & Standards
- Define and execute Sotheby’s global shipping strategy, ensuring alignment with business goals, client expectations, and brand reputation.
- Establish and maintain worldwide standards for shipping operations—including compliance, security, packaging, and client communication—while driving continuous improvement and innovation.
- Leverage technology and digital tools to enhance visibility, efficiency, and client experience across all markets.
- Develop and monitor global KPIs and scorecards to measure performance, ensure accountability, and identify opportunities for optimization.
Operations & Compliance
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- Oversee the secure, efficient transport of high-value art and luxury assets across auction, retail, and private sale channels worldwide.
- Ensure full compliance with customs, import/export, insurance, and cultural property regulations, proactively mitigating risk.
- Partner with Security, Legal, and Operations teams to enforce rigorous handling and safety standards for fragile and rare items.
Vendor & Partnership Management
- Build, lead, and optimize relationships with global carriers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers.
- Negotiate and manage contracts to balance cost efficiency with service quality, security, and client satisfaction.
- Benchmark and evaluate partners to ensure best-in-class performance and adherence to Sotheby’s standards.
Client Experience & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Embed shipping as a seamless, client-centric part of the Sotheby’s experience, ensuring transparency, timeliness, and reliability.
- Develop global protocols for communication, exception handling, and issue resolution.
- Partner with Client Experience, Sales, and Operations leaders to integrate shipping solutions into the broader service model.
Financial & Organizational Leadership
- Own the global shipping budget, driving cost efficiency while sustaining service excellence.
- Forecast capacity and infrastructure needs to support business growth.
- Lead global reporting and analytics to track spend, performance, and strategic ROI.
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
- 10+ years of progressive leadership experience in global shipping and logistics, ideally with a focus on luxury, fine art, or fragile asset transport.
- Deep expertise in international shipping regulations, customs compliance, and carrier management.
- Proven track record implementing global shipping standards, technology solutions, and vendor networks.
- Strong negotiation, vendor management, and partnership development skills.
- Exceptional leadership and change management skills, with the ability to inspire global teams.
- Highly client-oriented, with a deep understanding of shipping’s role in enhancing client trust and satisfaction
The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $120,000 -$150,000. 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