AVP, Specialist, Photographs

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.