Sale Coordinator, Chinese Works of Art Department

About Bonhams 

Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories.

Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment. 

About the Role 

The Sale Coordinator is an integral role in the expert departments, supporting the Specialists in the successful delivery of auctions as well as the day to day running of the department.

About the Department

Bonhams Chinese Works of Art Department is renowned for offering the finest works of art representing the richness and breadth of China's artistic heritage, particularly Imperial porcelain, white and spinach-green jades, cloisonné enamel, archaic and later bronzes, Ming and Qing furniture, and Buddhist art. 

Key Tasks and Responsibilities 

• As Sale Coordinator, you will primarily support the US-based sales, specialists, department members and clients of the NY Chinese Works of Art department, collaborating closely with the Asian Art department in Los Angeles, and the Global Chinese WOA department. 

• You will be the experienced user of Bonhams’ bespoke Auction Management System (A3) and primary business tool; as well as becoming proficient in other internal systems. 

• You will be responsible for managing clients and property throughout the sale cycles, including receipting, generating and issuing consignment contracts, requesting and uploading client details and payment management. 

• Serve as primary contact for external stakeholders ranging from clients to restorers, shippers and suppliers, escalating upward when necessary. 

• Co-ordinate movement of property throughout sale cycles, working with regional and global offices, Shipping, Operations & Photography to ensure compliant stock transfer. 

• Work with Client Services, Operations and Shipping to support clients with after sale enquiries, including the resolution of payments and arranging shipping quotes for purchased and unsold lots. 

• As an important part of the department, you will support day-to-day auction and sale-related activities and ensure the department has what is needed to run smoothly and effectively, including responding to client
  enquiries pre and post-sale,
  bidding and event management. 

• Assist with company-wide sale day activities such as clerking and phone bidding. 

• Additional duties may include cataloguing, research, or catalogue production support.


• In addition to the tasks listed, you may be required to perform other duties as assigned by your manager.

Key Skills and Attributes

• Strong time management and organizational ability 

• Excellent communication in all modes with both internal and external stakeholders 

• Ability to manage workflow and priorities in a fast-moving environment 

• Flexible approach and a willingness to support teams outside of your core responsibilities 

• 1-2 years in an administrative position (not necessarily from an auction background

• Professional fluency in spoken and written Mandarin Chinese  

• Academic background in Chinese Art is an advantage  

What We Offer 

In addition to a progressive work environment, Bonhams offers a competitive benefits package, including: 

• Excellent medical, dental and vision insurance – HMO, EPO, PPO with FSA and HSA 

• 20 days paid time off (PTO) 

• 12 paid holidays and holiday break from Christmas to New Years Day 

• 16 weeks fully paid parental leave
  (after one year) and flexible work arrangements 

• 401(k) retirement plan with company contribution (after one year) 

• Life insurance with AD&D 

• Short- and long-term disability 

• Tuition reimbursement
  (after 6 months) 

• Commuter benefits (transit, parking) 

• Employee assistance program (EAP) 

• Professional development: free online training and expansive content library 

• Employee resource groups: social club, diversity committee, mentorship program 

• Sponsored socials: annual summer and holiday parties, monthly birthday treats, weekly breakfast 

Bonhams participates in E-Verify.

$20.00 - 25.00 Hourly, depending on experience.