Associate Cataloguer, Modern Discoveries

THE ROLE

In this role, you will assist with all aspects of research and preparation for the production of the Modern Discoveries Online Auction

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Conducting research for each work in our sale and keeping diligent records of provenance, exhibition history and literature references;
• Assisting with physical cataloguing and arranging photography of works;
• Researching and writing catalogue notes for a large variety of works of different genres, periods, media, and price points;
• Work within our digital catalogue design platform, to produce and design lot pages for our online sales catalogues
• Liaising with external vendors such as conservators and framers, and external authenticating bodies to prepare works for sale
• Liaising with other departments which contribute to the Modern Discoveries sale, such as Contemporary Art, Latin American art, Prints, and Photo
• Liaising with internal support staff including administrators, registrars, art handlers, catalogue production, press, and marketing in assisting with the planning and execution of all logistical aspects of the Discoveries sale;
• Learning to evaluate works of art by assisting with research prior to estimate sessions
• During the exhibition and sale weeks, an associate cataloguer is expected to be an available resource for both New York-based and international colleagues, as well as a knowledgeable source of information on all aspects of the works in our sale;
• Assisting with proposals, both formal and in-house, in the months between sale seasons;
• Assisting with ad-hoc artist research projects and proactive sourcing initiatives;
• Support the larger department by answering the phones and handling mainline requests
• Providing a comprehensive level of service to Sotheby’s clients. This includes responding to day-to-day client queries and maintaining client contact

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s Degree required, ideally in relevant area of study/interest
• A minimum of 1-2 years of work experience
• A background in Art History, with experience researching and writing on works of art. A demonstrated interest in Impressionist and Modern Art is preferred and encouraged;
• Highly organized, detail-oriented;
• Ability to prioritize multiple highly important processes and responsibilities in a high-pressured environment and meet constant deadlines;
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to establish close working relationships with a variety of people across the department and company;
• Ability to work collaboratively on large projects while being confident and comfortable taking initiative and working on one’s own;
• Excellent client service;
• Excellent team player;
• Proficient computer skills and ideally a strong knowledge of Sotheby’s systems, including CAT, the Client System, the Employee Portal, Webnative, Excel, Word, photo editing and storage;
• Excellent verbal and writing skills;
• Requires flexibility in work hours and availability to work late nights and full weekends during catalogue deadline and pre-sale exhibition.
• Available for in-person work

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $50,000-$55,000 plus overtime. 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.