Cataloguer

PRIMARY FUNCTION

As Cataloguer in the Jewellery department in New York, this position is primarily responsible for cataloguing and contributing to all aspects of the catalogue production process for Jewellery Sales for New York. This position will also be responsible for producing Jewellery appraisals/valuations. This position will report to the Specialist, Head of Sale to support selling the New York sales and Jewellery auctions worldwide. Phillips values a workforce with a wide variety of experiences, backgrounds and skills, so we encourage you to apply even if you do not meet all the qualifications. 

DUTIES  AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Collaborate with department members to catalogue all sales, authoring and proofing catalogue descriptions, essays, and footnotes.


• Research property including authenticity, bibliography, provenance and exhibition history for auction, and valuation using libraries, online databases, the internet and outside experts.


• Catalogue jewels to Phillips and auction market standards including description, stones, weights, signature, date, measurements.


• Support all aspects of catalogue production to Phillips and auction market standards.


• Assist with valuations and proposals for consignments, working with other members of the Jewellery team to position Phillips as a premier platform from which to sell Jewellery.


• Support all selling activities for the New York Jewellery sales, working with Phillips colleagues to focus clients on specific works of interest and develop sales strategies..


• In close coordination with Head of Sale, help to cultivate networks among collectors, dealers and others in order to develop relationships and maintain best-in-class knowledge of the Jewellery market.


• Participate actively in presale exhibitions including but not limited to setup, property display, deinstallation, staffing, and client interactions.


• Prepare property for property review meetings with Specialists to determine value, conditions, marketability, and amend cataloguing as required.


• Supporting the Sale Administrator in property logistics and management in a collaborative fashion.


• Maintain department records and files in relevant internal databases and systems.


• Prepare condition reports and review with Specialists where appropriate.


• Send out special interest letters (cataloguing, provenance, expertise confirmation and approval) to relevant clients.


• Create detailed ‘selling packs’ and ‘fact sheets’ using market research and cataloguing for all sales where relevant.


• Assist clients at the valuation desk, via e-mail, telephone and on-site.


• Visit clients, dealers and restorers to collect and/or deliver Jewels property as needed.


• Manage the organization, cataloguing and augmentation of the departmental library.


• Participate in telephone bidding with clients during auctions.


• Perform other duties as requested.

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Deep academic and market knowledge of jewelry with the ability to carry on eloquently in verbal as well as written communications to a wide variety of audiences.


• Excellent client-relations and presentation skills including confidence, tact and diplomacy.


• Exceptional writing skills with the ability to produce engaging content across various platforms including marketing materials.

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

• 4+ years or experience performing similar duties in an auction house or in the jewellery trade, required


• Associated Jewellery qualifications, required


• Language skills in addition to English, preferred

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Driven and entrepreneurial with a proven ability to initiate and identify business opportunities including collectors and collections and track record of success.


• Ability to work professionally and collaboratively within the team and in all other areas within the business.


• Obtain high standard of integrity and ability to handle confidential information discreetly and responsibly.


• Proactive with excellent project management and organizational skills.


• Ability to operate with grace under pressure while delivering excellent work product

WORKING CONDITIONS

• Work is undertaken primarily within an office environment in our Park Avenue location.


• Travel may be required, subject to applicable travel advisories


• Ability to work evenings and weekends as necessary

ADDITONAL INFORMATION

• The hourly pay range for the role is $24.04-28.85 per hour.