Seller Operations Manager

About Sotheby'sEstablished 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 ROLEThe Seller Operations Manager is responsible for core management, people and transformation priorities as well as maintaining oversight of the pre-sale responsibilities for their team. As part of the Service Operations management team, the Seller Operations Manager will collaborate across Service Operations globally to ensure delivery of standardization of process and the day-to-day delivery of the operation to a high standard of quality.ResponsibilitiesPeople & Operational LeadershipDirectly manage a group of Pre-Sale Coordinators and provide day-to-day support and guidanceRecruit, train, coach, and develop a high-performing team of Pre-Sale CoordinatorsSet clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and manage performance outcomesPartner with Head of Sales Operations to set goals and perform annual performance reviewsMaintain a team budget and trackerServe as a subject matter expert for Pre-Sale workflows and assist Coordinators with complex issuesPre-Sale Execution & Specialist Department Support Ensure adequate Pre-Sale Coordinators coverage for specialist departments (holidays, sick leave) and take on full sale coordination if neededAct as a senior escalation point, resolving matters through to completion. Collaborate with specialist department stakeholders on issue resolutionUpdate auction calendars in accordance with sale date and time changesManage compliance, risk, and escalations appropriatelyOversee and support Coordinators with entering complex consignment terms correctly into SAP (graduated VC, Share, Guarantees, IBs) and ensure Non-Standard Terms spreadsheet is completedExecute sale conversions in the auction platformAssist Coordinators with movement of property (inbound shipping, imports/exports, return shipping)Partner closely with Client Experience, Shipping, and Account Receivable to ensure appropriate handoffs are complete following all salesEnsure financial transactions amongst teams comply with corporate governanceWork with key department stakeholders to ensure outputs are delivered to the highest qualityOversee coordination of after-sale transactions including post-auction sales, account adjustments and canceled salesAssist with staffing for handcarries, shipping oversees, client viewings, exhibition support.Cross-Functional Collaboration & ImprovementWork alongside Head of Sales Operations and take personal accountability for the direction of transformation within the Pre-Sale function and the wider Pre-Sale Operations teamCollaborate with the Product & Technology teams for projects, system development, testing scenarios, improvements, etc.Partner with legal, compliance, and the commercial officeSpecial project managementContribute to broader operational and transformation initiatives aligned with Operations prioritiesIdeal Experience & CompetenciesBachelor’s Degree required, ideally in relevant area of study/interest3–5 years of experience in management, operations, logistics, or related fieldsPrevious Pre Sale Coordinator or relevant experience within an auction house is desired but not a pre-requisiteStrong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skillsHigh attention to detail and ability to manage multiple prioritiesCalm, professional demeanor with excellent judgment under pressureExcellent organizational skills including the ability to multitask and prioritizeAbility to communicate at all levels, to present information and influence behaviors/cultureEmpathetic, energetic, persistent, and proactive with a flexible, forward-thinking approachWorking knowledge of Sotheby’s systems, procedures and sale administration is an advantageProficiency in Excel; experience with SAP or similar systems preferredAble to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretionThe proposed base salary for this position ranges from $70,000-$75,000. 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.To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the US, please click here.To view our Candidate Privacy Notice for the UK, Hong Kong, France and Switzerland, please click here.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.