Merchandising Manager, Handbags

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 Merchandising Manager is responsible for working with specific business units (Fashion, Fine Arts, Interiors, Jewellery, Handbags or Watches) in evaluating and processing incoming consignment inquiries from both private individuals and corporate consignors, providing client support with the entire consignment process, cataloging, pricing and managing consignments through the merchandising pipeline. The Merchandising Manager will work closely with the specific business units and the Marketplace teams on a daily basis, serving as the hub of information for all consignments on Sotheby’s Buy Now Marketplace and offered in buy now retail outlets.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage all inbound consignment inquiries from private handbags and dealer consignors.

• Answer client queries, oversee a portfolio of handbags contacts, develop new business from existing clients and actively seek new sales opportunities.

• Develop trusted advisor relationships with key individual handbag consignors, dealers and end customer stakeholders.

• Liaise between customers and cross-functional internal teams (including operations, finance, post sale, compliance or client services) to ensure the timely and successful delivery of our solutions according to customer needs.

• Expertly evaluate potential consignments for salability according to diamond, gemstone, silhouette, price point, metal, designer or private label and negotiate commissions and agree fixed prices for appropriate handbags.

• Clearly communicate the Sotheby’s value proposition and process to consignors to deliver an exceptional client experience.

• Maintain the highest standard of client service, and proactively manage and support high-touch clients. This may include preparation of reports, or sales reconciliations.

• Serve as the main point of contact for all handbags account management and pre and post sale matters (including VAT, delivery note, client account creation, finance, delivery note, self-billing breakdown or administration)

• Possibly manage a team of Account Associates or Account Coordinators

• Maintain detailed status reports for all consignments, communicating these regularly to all internal and external stakeholders.

• Represent the Sotheby’s Buy Now Handbags offering communicating the selection, offering and proposition to increase consumer awareness.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Proven account management, project management or other relevant experience.

• Ability to juggle multiple account management projects at a time, while maintaining sharp attention to detail.

• Working-to-expert knowledge of specific business units (Fashion (Handbags and Sneakers), Fine Arts, Interiors, Jewellery, Watches).

• Entrepreneurial spirit coupled with a high level of self-motivation.

• A high degree of business acumen, sophistication, and the ability to establish trust with a variety of personalities.

• Demonstrated track record of meeting & exceeding monthly goals.

• Great degree of organization and attention to detail.

• Comfort with ambiguity, and ability to navigate new business challenges.

• Ability to master multiple technical devices and systems.

• Ability to manage and work with teams in multiple locations.

• Digital or online experience a plus, but not required.

• Experience with VAT nuances for pre-owned and new categories a plus, but not required.

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $70,000-$80,000. 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.