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

To provide formal, evidence-based valuations of all Decorative Arts categories (15^th – 20^th Century) including, but not limited to, British and Continental Furniture, Rugs and Carpets, Sculpture, and Clocks on behalf of Sotheby’s London Valuations department. Knowledge in additional areas such as Modern Design, Asian, Indian and Islamic Decorative Arts, Silver, Collectibles, etc. desirable.

This is a Temporary position with a 12-month commitment with the view to be extended.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Providing formal valuations for sale, insurance, taxation, family division, loan collateral, and estate planning purposes based either on on-site visits or desktop updates
Locating, cataloguing, and photographing items whilst on-site demonstrating exceptional attention to detail
Submitting accurate and detailed cataloguing in a timely and efficient manner along with reliable, evidence-based estimates
Assisting with valuations across the UK and Europe, being prepared to travel extensively, occasionally at short notice
Offering a thorough and excellent service to a wide range of clients and their professional advisors in line with corporate standards, acting as an ambassador for Sotheby’s in both manner and appearance
Maintaining the highest standards of discretion, integrity, and trustworthiness, always respecting complete client confidentiality
Working as part of a team alongside valuation managers and production staff both on-site and in the office
Liaising and communicating clearly with Sotheby’s specialist departments and external consultants when appropriate to check cataloguing and values
Carrying out office-based work such as provenance research, composing footnotes (when appropriate), proof-reading and correcting documents, and handling ad hoc general valuation enquiries when required
Understanding and adhering to all legal and compliance requirements particular to the industry i.e. Ivory, CITES, AML etc.
Understanding the risk inherent in valuation work, being responsible and accountable for all work submitted
Maintaining an accurate and up to date calendar at all times
Supporting sales and business-getting when required
Managing expense claims in a timely manner

EXPERINCE & QUALIFICATIONS REQUIRED

Educated to graduate standard
Membership of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or a related professional body desirable
A minimum of 5 years’ experience valuing chattels at an international auction house, specialist valuation service, or related art business
Proven practical experience of cataloguing and valuing British and Continental Furniture, Rugs and Carpets, Sculpture, and Clocks
Knowledge in additional areas such as Modern Design, Asian, Indian and Islamic Decorative Arts, Silver, Collectibles, etc. advantageous
Awareness of the broader market at both regional and international level
Understanding the UK taxation system within the context of chattels valuations i.e. IHT, CGT, Acceptance in Lieu scheme, conditional exemption claims, rental negotiations, and retrospective valuations desirable

SKILLS REQUIRED

Full, clean driving licence
Good IT and photography skills, along with basic Excel
Strong communication skills along with an organised and methodical approach to work
Fluency in English, proficiency in another European language advantageous

COMPETENCIES

Self-motivated and able to work effectively alone using own initiative, as well working as part of a larger team taking direction
Holding a flexible approach to working hours and willingness to travel both domestically and internationally when required
Ability to work under pressure, coordinate a busy schedule, and prioritise workload all whilst meeting tight deadlines

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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.

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