Senior Specialist, Illuminated Manuscripts

Established in 1744, Sothebys is the worlds premier destination for art and luxury. Sothebys 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. Sothebys believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.THE ROLE
To win business for, to catalogue and research property, and to help co-ordinate sales of books and manuscripts across Europe and the UK while aligning with Global initiatives; with a special focus on medieval manuscripts, continental books and manuscripts, and, preferably, music
RESPONSIBLITIES

Business getting across Europe (and further afield when necessary) for various-owner and single-owner sales, and sales by private treaty; valuation of property for sale, and negotiation with potential and existing clients
Contributing to meeting sales and net profits targets for sales, either by auction or private treaty
Providing expertise; researching and cataloguing objects to the highest standard and according to scheduled deadlines
Assisting with and co-ordinating research, both internally, and with external experts
Involvement in all aspects of sale production including photography, online publication of catalogues, the creation of related content and editorial materials
Dealing with day-to-day client enquiries at the counter, by e-mail and on the telephone
Writing condition reports, estimate enquiries and general correspondence
Working alongside the New York, Paris, and London departments in business-getting, the promotion and selling of sales worldwide, and global sales coordination
Operating at all times in accordance with the companys rules on compliance and corporate governance
Contributing to maintaining and raising the departments profile by undertaking lectures and other promotional engagements as appropriate
Involvement as required with the preparation of major valuations

Educated, certainly to graduate, and possibly to post-graduate level
A knowledge of medieval and renaissance manuscripts is essential
An existing high profile with concomitant experience in the field of rare books is highly desirable
A working knowledge of musical manuscripts would be an advantage
The ability to work effectively individually, and as a part of a team, to support colleagues both locally and globally when required
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and a commitment to an exemplary level of client service
Prepared to travel, at short notice, as required
A flexible approach and the ability to work well under pressure. Extended working hours will be necessary at deadlines
Good organisational skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines
Some understanding of, and interest in, Sothebys, including the services it offers as well as its corporate values
The ability to communicate at all levels within the business, and with a wide range of potential clients
Knowledge of European and/or classical languages would be an advantage