Summary
Sotheby’s is hiring a Handbags Specialist for work across Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the wider region. The role involves developing auction and private sale business, authenticating and valuing handbags, advising consignors on pricing and terms, and building relationships with clients and internal teams. The specialist will also analyze auction data, support product photography and marketing, and travel regularly across the Middle East and Europe. Applicants should have at least five years of professional experience in the GCC, experience managing client portfolios and driving sales, and strong English communication skills; Arabic and French are valued.
The posting
As published on sothebys.com. Pulled from the employer's site and shown as they wrote it.
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.
RESPONSIBILITIES
- Business-getting for Auctions in Dubai and across the region as well as contributing to major selling European locations and Buy-Now Marketplace
- Drive Private Sale activity within region including the organization of Private Sale exhibitions within the Middle East
- Inspect and authenticate properties in the Middle East
- Work with Head of department 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 data to the Head of Department
- Advise on handbag and accessory product mix for Middle East clientele
- 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 Department aware of progress for Auction and Marketplace channels
- Regular travel throughout the Middle East and Europe will be required as part of the role
EXPERIENCE
- Proven experience of managing client portfolios and driving sales
- Experience as a handbag’s authenticator and valuer
- Experience in auction house, ecommerce or second-hand luxury shop
- A minimum of five years of professional experience within the GCC region
- Knowledge of retail and resale markets for luxury handbags and accessories
- Interest in luxury brands and ecommerce businesses
SKILLS
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
- Enthusiastic, proactive, and flexible
- Excellent interpersonal skills; capable of building meaningful client relationships
- A problem-solving mindset, with the ability to meet deadlines and operate effectively in a demanding environment
- 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
- Arabic language skills highly valued
- French language skills highly advantageous, other European language skills 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.