Pre Sale Experience Manager

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which 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. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

THE ROLE

The Pre-Sale Manager is responsible for core management, people and transformation priorities as well as maintaining oversight of the pre-sale responsibilities for their team. As part of the Service Operations management team, the Pre-Sale Manager will collaborate across Service Operations globally to ensure delivery of standardization of process and the day-to-day delivery of the operation to a high standard of quality.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Line manage a group of Pre Sale Coordinators and provide day-to-day support and guidance
• Support recruitment of Pre Sale Coordinators  for roles as required
• Partner with Head of Client Experience as appropriate to set goals and perform annual performance reviews
• Oversee training programme for new Pre Sale Coordinators 
• Manage risk and escalation appropriately  
• Ensure adequate Pre Sale Coordinators  coverage for specialist departments (holidays, sick leave)
• Work with key department stakeholders to ensure outputs are delivered to the highest quality
• Partner closely with post-sale managers to ensure appropriate handoff and completion of the client journey 
• Work alongside Head of Client Experience and take personal accountability for the direction of transformation within the Pre-Sale function and the wider Service Operation team
• Collaborate as a team across Client Experience teams to manage workloads
• Oversee and support new Coordinators with entering complex consignment terms correctly into SAP (graduated VC, Share, Guarantees, IBs) and ensure Non-Standard Terms spreadsheet is completed and lots are blocked in SAP
• Assist Coordinators with complex post-sale client issues e.g. canceled sales
• Ensure financial transactions amongst team comply with corporate governance
• Assist Coordinators with movement of property via NY for other sale locations (export for sale and return shipments)
• Oversee coordination of post-auction transactions including post-auction sales, account adjustments and canceled sales

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s Degree required, ideally in relevant area of study/interest
• Previous Pre Sale Coordinator or relevant experience within an auction house is desired
• Experience in managing a team is an advantage but not a pre-requisite
• Enthusiastic and proactive with a flexible, forward-thinking approach
• Good communication and client service skills
• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to multitask and prioritize
• High level of attention to detail
• Ability to communicate at all levels, to present information and influence behaviors/culture
• Energetic and persistent 
• Working knowledge of Sotheby’s systems, procedures and sale administration is an advantage but not a prerequisite
• Able to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion

The proposed base salary for this position is $70,000. 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.

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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.