About this Merchandising Manager role at Sotheby's
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 Merchandising Manager for Books & Collectibles is responsible for working with specific business units (Books, Vintage Posters, Sports and Editions) 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 for Books & Collectibles will work closely with the specific business units and the Marketplace teams daily, serving as the hub of information for all consignments on Sotheby’s Buy Now and offered in buy retail outlets.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Manage all inbound consignment inquiries from private clients and dealer consignors.
- Answer client queries, oversee a portfolio of Books & Collectibles contacts, develop new business from existing clients and actively seek new sales opportunities.
- Develop trusted advisor relationships with key individual 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 price point, artist or private label and negotiate commissions and agree fixed prices for appropriate items.
- 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 Books & Collectibles account management and pre- and post-sale matters (including VAT, delivery note, client account creation, finance, delivery note, self-billing breakdown or administration).
- Manage the Books & Collectibles cataloger.
- Maintain detailed status reports for all consignments, communicating these regularly to all internal and external stakeholders.
- Represent the Sotheby’s Buy Now Books & Collectibles offering communicating the selection, offering and offering 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 (Books, Vintage Posters, Sports or Editions).
- 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 is a plus but not required.
The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $80,000-$100,000. 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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