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
The Specialist, Handbags & Fashion is responsible for sourcing luxury bags and accessories for Auction and Buy Now Marketplace. The Specialist will provide pricing and valuation services to clients and authenticate bags, and will be responsible for building buyer relationships and partnering with internal teams.
This role is in Asia - open to Hong Kong, China, Singapore, or Taiwan.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Business-getting for Auctions across major selling Asian locations and Buy-Now Marketplace
- Inspect and authenticate properties in all Asia locations
- Work with Head of Sale and Marketing teams to promote all Auctions and Marketplace initiatives
- Outreach to auction bidders and buyers to build relationships
- Outreach to Sotheby’s Relationship Managers to ensure internal awareness of all sales happening in this category
- Provide regular analysis of auction and market data
- Advise on handbag and accessory product mix for Sotheby’s Buy-Now Marketplace
- Provide pricing, terms of consignment, and other deal-specific information to consignors
- Ensure that product photography is executed properly
- Work collaboratively with team Administrators and Coordinators to facilitate smooth handoff of information and positive client experiences
- Participate in regular pipeline meetings to keep Head of Sale aware of progress for Auction and Marketplace channels
- Regular travel will be required as part of the role
IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES
- Experience in auction house, ecommerce or second-hand luxury shop
- Knowledge of retail and resale markets for luxury handbags and accessories
- Experience as an authenticator and valuer of luxury goods is a plus
- Interest in luxury brands and ecommerce businesses
- Enthusiastic, proactive, and flexible
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills; able to communicate effectively and build meaningful client relationships
- Client Focus; Committed to providing outstanding service to clients
- Ability to work independently and as part of a busy, global team
- Ability to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion
- Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Suite, tech savvy
- Mandarin and Cantonese are highly advantageous, other language skills are highly valued
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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.