Head of Seller Experience & Private Sales Operations, Americas

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

This role will be responsible for the day-to-day management and operational function of the Pre-Sale and Private Sales/Marketplace teams. Candidate will mitigate risk to the business in key areas by providing ongoing practical support, guidance, leadership and ensuring comprehensive starter/refresher training and oversight with Pre-Sale Managers. The role will also oversee relevant in-depth reviews of process and systems, drive forward efficiencies and promote consistency by ensuring adherence to company policies and best practice.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide day-to-day support, guidance, and leadership to Pre-Sale Managers and wider Pre-Sale Coordinator teams including recruitment, onboarding, proper coverage, goal setting and performance reviews

• Work closely with Service Operations Management team in reviewing processes and implementing improvements to enhance workflow and service levels and scoring

• Communicate on behalf of Pre-Sale Operations across the global business and respective Heads of Seller Experience to ensure efficiency and consistency in standard operating procedures and goals

• Engage with GMs, BD/BM group, and Sale Directors on required actions, shared workflows and any departmental issues

• Partner closely with Post-Sale, Shipping, Accounts Receivable, and Bids & Client Services teams to improve client administrative journey and strive to innovate constantly with this aim

• Responsible for completing end-to-end process reviews of pre-sale workflows to identify and improve processes enabling an optimal end-state workflow

• Support projects across the business including Inactive Inventory Initiative and work closely with Service Operations Managers to meet inventory targets and review

• Implement and communicate company directives and policies, including compliance due diligence standards and requirements, corporate governance

• Serve as key stakeholder and business owner for Pre-Sale and identify and prioritize technology requirements

• Assist Managers and Coordinators with any escalations or complex client issues, consignments, inbound shipments, RTCs, compliance escalations, contract/legal escalations

• Aim to develop client self-serve, reduce touchpoints, facilitate all consignor administrative procedures internally and externally

• Maintain P&L ownership and manage variable costs (OT,T&E) and work with Finance to develop and set the annual budget while forecasting changes on a quarterly basis

• Work constantly with other stakeholders in Service Operations, Logistics, and Operations Leadership to improve processes and improve client experience

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Working knowledge of Sotheby's systems and procedures is essential

• Well-organized, enthusiastic and proactive with a flexible approach, stress resistant

• Proven management skills, creative problem solving and excellent interpersonal skills

• Strong work ethic, able to work both independently and part of a team

• Able to maintain highest standards of confidentiality and client service

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $85,000-$95,000. 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.