Head of Department, Jewelry, North America

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Our deep expertise across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories 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 through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby’s new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

THE ROLE

Lead the Jewelry Department in North America, responsible for the day to day operations of and deliverables from the department, including people management, cost management, sales and client strategy.

Responsible for new business generation and for the sourcing, authentication, evaluation and sale of property to meet sales and profit targets for Jewelry.

Ensure close co-operation and good communications with international and senior colleagues in worldwide Jewelry and across other North America departments and regional offices.

 RESPONSIBILITIES

Head of Department, Business Getting & KCM

• Overall responsibility for Jewelry sales held in North America


• Develop and lead departmental business getting and negotiation, meeting sales and net profit targets


• Continue to develop and nurture client relationships. Focus on strategic long-term business development focusing on appropriate business and clients for the New York sales, while also being proactive for global Jewelry sales.


• Identify private clients in USA, interested in collecting Jewelry, and develop them to actively transact in our worldwide Jewelry auctions, and potentially in other auction categories


• Participate in consignment sweeps, appraisals/valuations, in USA


• Develop with Client Development specific client priorities, key action plans for existing or newly identified clients.  Setting milestones and key objectives and then executing against these strategies


• Participate in interest meetings, execute bids, and provide post sale service to successful buyers


• Build strong relationships with international colleagues and work with clients to actively sell Sotheby’s international Jewelry sales


• Increase private sale revenue by growing awareness of private-sale capabilities


• Work in conjunction with Global Head of Jewelry Business and Business Director to identify the marketing and business getting strategy for the New York sales and team.


• With the Global Head of Jewelry Business and Business Director ensure accurate management of all sale related costs

Expertise & Client Service

• Set an example of scholarship – providing expertise, researching and cataloging objects to the highest standard, according to client service and sale deadlines.


• Maintain an exceptionally high level of client service, both internally and externally.
  
  

Team Management

• Direct line management responsibility for specialist and cataloging staff, working with the Global Head of Jewellery Business and Managing Director, Global Jewelry and HR on recruitment, performance management, development, year-end processes and ad hoc support for the team.


• Provide mentoring and help to train less experienced colleagues (whether in New York or other North America locations), developing the team as individuals and as a whole to maximize the quality of the expertise and levels of client service offered by the business.


• Ensure that teamwork is supported within the department.   Monitor work priorities, vacation, and well-being within the Department.

Other

• Take an active role in partnering with the Marketplace and Salon teams to support the performance of the presentation and sales of Jewelry via those channels.


• Operating at all times in accordance with the company’s rules on compliance and corporate governance, working closely with the Business Director as the point people for problem solving, client service level, and general legal matters.


• Facilitate high level private treaties where appropriate.


• Prepare proposals and valuations.


• Attend global Jewelry auctions where necessary 

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $175,000-$240,000. 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. 

To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the US, please click here.

To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the UK, Hong Kong, France and Switzerland, please click here.

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.