Cataloguer, Fine Art

Company Culture

At Freeman’s | Hindman we believe that people are enriched and energized when they are surrounded with objects of significance and meaning. Freeman’s | Hindman is one of the leading and fastest growing fine art auction houses in the U.S. Our values are evident in how we approach the marketplace, providing unmatched service, a focus on excellence, and holding the utmost respect for our clients and the items we steward. As a globally recognized brand, we conduct over 100 auctions each year for everything from contemporary paintings and fine jewelry to French furniture and rare books. With six salerooms in Chicago, Cincinnati, Denver, New York, Palm Beach, and Philadelphia, we stay locally relevant while passionately catering to our global sellers and buyers. 

Position Summary

The Cataloguer assists the Specialists in research and maintaining classification and labeling of all property in-house according to departmental cataloging standards. The Cataloguer coordinates authentication and acts as liaison with colleagues and client contacts. Passionately supports the Freeman’s | Hindman brand in daily interactions with clients and team members. Follows the five principles of the client interaction guidelines in all communication.? 

Key Responsibilities

• Maintain departmental cataloging standards.
• Maintain reference library and request reference acquisition when needed, with Specialists.
• Oversee proper entry of all Cataloguing for sales including but not limited to categorization, dating, provenance, Use of Name, measurements, condition report, etc. 
• Oversee catalogue edits with Specialists.
• Coordinate with regional offices and TEPC, regarding incoming property and any required additional information, authentication, or restoration.
• Perform initial inspection and condition report of property on-site as it arrives in-house.
• Communicate any recommended adjustments to auction estimates, cataloging and condition with internal client representative or client.
• Provide cataloging to Head of Sale for approval and communicate with Department Coordinator and TEPC Associate once it is ready to be sent out with receipt.
• Foster relationships with experts, art advisors, institutions, and authenticating bodies to ensure timely authentication, as needed.
• Maintain database of experts, schedules and fee structures.
• Coordinate authentication of property, including shipment, fees, and, when needed and with the assistance of Specialists.
• Communicate with appropriate colleagues regarding timeline of authentication and suggested sale date.
• Perform research for Specialists, providing reference citations for catalogue when needed.
• Write essays for the catalogue on individual lots, artists, collections or collectors, as appropriate
• Respond to online inquiries with Specialists’ oversight.
• Attend client appointments with the supervision of Specialists and assists in generating listings and appraisals.
• Meet with in-house appointments and walk-ins.
• Assist Specialists with creating proposals.
• Given the global nature of our business, we may work outside of normal business hours or across departments (e.g., with Accounting or Operations) to assist clients with particular needs. 
• Oversee the timely re-slating of unsold property.
• Ensure the estimates for re-offered property and cancelled sales are adjusted accordingly and communicate adjustment with appropriate colleague.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Art or Design or related field preferred.
• Minimum of 3-5 years’ administrative or customer service work experience, particularly in the arts or design field.

Skills

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proven excellence in client service and relationship management.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
• Strong follow-through and commitment to task completion.

Values

• Excellence: Setting the standard in auction and appraisal services through expertise and meticulous attention to detail.
• Integrity: Upholding honesty and transparency in all interactions with clients, partners and colleagues. 
• Judgment: Incorporating experience, empathy, and integrity to always deliver client centric decisions and actions that uphold our brand. 
• Collaboration: Working together with our team and clients to achieve shared goals and exceed expectations. 
• Responsiveness: Delivering timely and tailored solutions to meet the unique needs of every client. 

What We Offer

• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with Company Match.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Choose from Medical, Prescription Drug, Vision & Dental Plans (PPO & HDHP options available).
• Generous Paid Time Off.
• Enjoy 12 company-paid holidays throughout the year.
• Extended Holiday Office Closure.
• Up to 12 Weeks of Fully Paid Parental Leave.
• Company-Paid Short- & Long-Term Disability Insurance.
• Company-Paid Group Life Insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).