ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which 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. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.
THE ROLE
The Gallery & Exhibition Manager holds a pivotal and front-facing role within our organization, overseeing the meticulous planning and execution of all exhibitions and auctions. This dynamic position requires a blend of art handling expertise, strong leadership skills and a relentless drive to achieve exceptional results. From collaborating effectively with specialist departments on exhibition timing and layout to coordinating with the marketing and facilities teams to execute creative vision, this role demands effective management of the property handling team to deliver on time and on budget. Our ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment rewarded by tangible results.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Gallery Planning & Exhibition Oversight:
- Oversee all sale exhibitions requirements at our Asia locations (primary focus in Hong Kong), including pre-sale, travelling exhibitions, selling, and highlights from upcoming auctions.
- Ensure exhibitions open punctually and adhere to budgetary guidelines.
- Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders including the broader Operations team, specialist departments and marketing to realize the creative vision for the exhibition.
- Develop and maintain installation and breakdown schedules using previous art handling knowledge to optimize logistical planning and manpower
- Oversee team to ensure seamless coordination of all exhibition processes, including gallery work, customization reviews, prop orders, and submissions.
- Act as main point of contact for external contractors and vendors, manage relationship, and monitor vendor performance.
- Innovate scheduling and operational processes to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
Calendar & Sale Management:
- Coordinate with Corporate Strategy Team to develop and maintain sale calendar for Asia, with a primary focus in Hong Kong.
- Integrate long-term building improvement plans in the Sale Calendar and oversee day-to-day scheduling of exhibitions, sales, and internal/external events.
- Resolve scheduling conflicts diplomatically and effectively, both internally and with competitors. Manage communications and escalate unresolved issues as needed.
- Participate in livestream planning and weekly forums to review sale for
- Ensure galleries, salesrooms, and viewing rooms maintain high standards of cleanliness, visual appeal, and client experience.
Team & Management:
- Supervise Operations Coordinator involved in planning and supporting property staging, executing exhibitions and breakdown.
- Collaborate closely with Logistics peers, to coordinate interoffice transfers to support Exhibitions and to allocate property handlers effectively across various functions, adjusting to accommodate fluctuations in the auction workflow within the team.
- Participate in meetings with key internal stakeholders, including Operations support teams, to review upcoming installation/breakdown schedules and adjust schedules as needed
QUALIFICATIONS:
- 8 years of proven experience in art handling and exhibition management within a high-end auction house setting.
- Strong leadership skills with a track record of motivating teams to achieve operational excellence.
- Excellent organizational abilities with a keen attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
- Proficiency in scheduling and logistics management, with a focus on optimizing resources and meeting deadlines.
- Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
- Skill in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Sheets and SAP.
- Display a positive attitude and adhere to Sotheby's Service Standards.
- This role operates in a professional office environment and may occasionally require presence in warehouse or gallery spaces.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills, capable of collaborating with diverse stakeholders.
This role offers a unique opportunity to lead and innovate within the vibrant world of auction house exhibitions, driving impactful results and maintaining our esteemed reputation for excellence. If you are passionate about art, driven by challenges, and possess strong managerial skills, we encourage you to apply. Employees in this role may be expected to work overtime on evenings and weekends.
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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.
