Head of Department, Handbags & Fashion

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 This role will manage the Handbags and Fashion department in America, and is responsible for the day-to‑day operations of the department, including people management and recruitment, process and procedure, budget control and setting the sales strategy for the department. The Head of Department will be responsible for new business generation and the solicitation, authentication, evaluation and sale of property to meet sales and profit targets for Handbags. The Head of Department will be required to build close co‑operation and maintain strong communications with other America departments (support and specialist), as well as the regional representatives. Ideally, they will create and maintain effective working relationships between the US and international colleagues in worldwide departments, especially cross‑departmental with Luxury teams. Responsibilities Overall responsibility for the management of the Handbags and Fashion sales held in USA Work in conjunction with the Global Head and Business Director to identify the client development, marketing and business‑getting strategy for Handbags and Fashion in USA Operate at all times in accordance with the company’s rules on compliance and corporate governance Manage the department P&L, ensuring adherence to agreed budgets and delivery of annual financial plans and forecasts in a timely fashion Identify private clients in USA interested in collecting Handbags and Fashion and develop them to actively transact in our worldwide Handbags and Fashion auctions, and potentially in other auction categories Take responsibility for consignment in USA; targets will be established annually and reviewed with the Global Head on a regular basis Participate in consignment sweeps, appraisals/valuations in USA Cultivate long‑term client relationships through personalized correspondence, entertainment, visits, and delivery of auction services Direct line‑management responsibility for department Specialists and Cataloguers; improve overall expertise and client service standards, mentor junior colleagues, ensure teamwork, set priorities, and address HR matters including recruitment, performance management and compensation review Develop client priorities and action plans with Client Development; set milestones and execute strategies Business‑getting and negotiation to meet sales and net‑profit targets Participate in client meetings, execute bids, and provide post‑sale service to successful buyers Build strong relationships with international colleagues and collaborate with them to sell Sotheby’s international Handbags and Fashion sales Increase private‑sale revenue by raising awareness of private‑sale capabilities Increase Buy Now revenue by expanding the assortment and maintaining a regular flow of listings Prepare proposals and valuations Maintain an exceptionally high level of client service, both internally and externally Maintain general knowledge of policies and procedures related to compliance, property shipments, and post‑sale services Required Experience Degree educated or equivalent Proven skills in authentication for handbags and fashion Proven experience with business‑getting and Handbags and Fashion expertise Expert knowledge of specialty, including: Current in‑depth market knowledge and awareness Archives and reference sources A network of contacts within the Handbags and Fashion market Proven business acumen Proven commitment to excellence in client service, professional and discreet Functional working knowledge of the complete auction process and related procedures (e.g. shipping regulations, taxation, compliance) Excellent communication skills Self‑motivated with enthusiasm to lead a busy team and develop others Proven ability to meet deadlines and strong organisational skills Ability to work well under pressure, with a flexible approach to a wide range of tasks and navigate ambiguity at times Maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion Flexible to travel at certain times of the year to support sales, traveling exhibitions and client visits if required Compensation The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $120,000‑$150,000. In addition to base salary, successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus and 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 organisational factors are also considered. EEO Statement 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, 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr