Senior Specialist, American Art

About BonhamsBonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewelry, and entertainment memorabilia. Our employees are passionate about their work, and we pride ourselves on a bespoke approach that aims to make every client feel important.Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment. About The RoleThe Senior Specialist, American Art is a senior member of the American Art department, responsible for driving business development, securing high-value consignments, and contributing to strong auction results in American Art. Working within a national team and reporting to the Head of American Art, this role combines deep connoisseurship with strong commercial acumen.The Senior Specialist plays a critical role in cultivating client relationships, identifying opportunities for growth, and managing all aspects of the consignment process—from initial appraisal through sale execution—while supporting departmental strategy and market leadership.Key Tasks and ResponsibilitiesBusiness Development & Client RelationsBuild and maintain a strong national network of collectors, dealers, advisors, curators, and institutions in the New England regionIdentify and secure consignments through proactive outreach, relationship management, and strategic business-gettingDeliver auction valuations, proposals, and formal appraisals to clients with professionalism and accuracyAct as a primary point of contact for New England consignors and buyers, ensuring a high level of client service throughout the auction cycleConsignment & Sale ExecutionCollaborate with the Head of American Art and specialist colleagues to evaluate property and determine estimates, reserves, and sale strategiesSupport the successful execution of sales out of Marlborough through targeted client outreach and engagementParticipate actively in presale exhibitions and auctions, including client interaction and telephone biddingResearch, Cataloguing & ConnoisseurshipResearch, authenticate, and catalogue works of American art, including paintings, sculpture, and works on paperPrepare and review catalogue entries, condition reports, and scholarly content with a high degree of accuracy and insightEnsure consistency in style, content, and quality across all sale materialsAppraisals & ValuationsConduct fair market, insurance, and estate appraisals for a variety of clientsConduct appraisals for private clients and institutional collectionsProvide expert guidance on collection development, valuation, and market trendsCollaboration & Cross-Functional WorkPartner with internal teams including Marketing, Press, Photography, Production, and Client Development to position sales effectivelyContribute to press materials, marketing campaigns, and targeted selling strategiesLiaise across departments to identify cross-category opportunities and support broader business growth Market Engagement & RepresentationRepresent the company at auctions, gallery openings, art fairs, and institutional eventsMaintain current knowledge of market trends, artists, and competitor activityIn addition to the tasks and responsibilities listed, you may be required to perform other duties as assigned by your manager.Qualifications & ExperienceBachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree in Art History or related field preferred5+ years of relevant experience in an auction house, gallery, art advisory firm, or institutionDemonstrated expertise in American Art (from Colonial to Contemporary), with knowledge of New England Art strongly preferredBroad knowledge of European art from Old Masters to the present strongly recommendedProven track record of business-getting, as well as meeting and exceeding sales targetsEstablished client base and strong industry relationshipsKey Skills and AttributesDeep art historical knowledge combined with strong market awareness and commercial instinctsExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage a wide range of audiencesStrong negotiation, presentation, and client management abilitiesEntrepreneurial mindset with a proactive, results-driven approachHigh level of organization, attention to detail, and project management capabilityAbility to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environmentDiscretion, professionalism, and sound judgment in handling confidential informationForeign language skills (e.g., French, German, Italian) and USPAP certification are highly advantageousAdditional RequirementsWillingness to travel domestically as neededFlexibility to support auctions and events outside standard business hoursWhat We OfferIn addition to an active and progressive work environment, Bonhams offers a competitive benefits package to encourage work/life balance, including:Excellent medical, dental and vision insurance – HMO, EPO, PPO with FSA and HSA20 days paid time off (PTO)12 paid holidays and holiday break from Christmas to New Years Day16 weeks fully paid parental leave (after one year) and flexible work arrangements401(k) retirement plan with company contribution (after one year)Life insurance with AD&DShort- and long-term disabilityTuition reimbursementCommuter benefits (transit and parking)Employee assistance program (EAP)Professional development: free online training and expansive content libraryEmployee resource groups: social club, diversity committee, mentorship programSponsored socials: annual staff art exhibition, annual summer and holiday parties, monthly birthday treats, weekly breakfastBonhams participates in E-Verify.Applicants who best match the position needs will be contacted.