Associate Cataloguer, Handbags

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 function of this role is to support the Handbags and Fashion department in Europe, cataloguing handbags, fashion and accessories. The Cataloguer will support all sales channels: auction, private sale, and salon. Further, they will help all sales efforts towards these sales channels whilst providing general assistance with ongoing projects and valuations within the department. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Cataloging

• Responsible for cataloging handbags, fashion and accessories for auction and Private Sales
• Complete primary research for handbag cataloging : identifying materials, colors, bag models, year of manufacture. Identify materials from endangered species (feathers, crocodile, lizard…)
• Complete primary research for fashion cataloging : identifying material, colors, type of clothing, brand label, year of manufacture, provenance, literature
• Complete condition checking and summarize an accurate condition report
• Assist the specialists with authentication and pricing of handbags, fashion and accessories
• Maintain internal systems and databases (SAP, ADM, Client System, Google docs) for cataloging

 Project Management, Social Media & Data Analysis

• Track sale KPIs; prepare analysis and reports using sales and marketing data from various sources
• Work with marketing to provide assets and contents required in development of editorial and social posts in a timely manner;
• Provide ad-hoc support as required during the execution of sales and special events

Business Getting 

• Support Handbag & Fashion Specialists with sourcing and selling
• Assist the specialists with appraisal appointments
• Support business getting with client submissions to the Consignment platform, follow up with client to arrange consignment and follow up regarding purchase inquires
• Communicate with clients and vendors about sale consignments or property requirements in a structured and clear manner
• Partner with presale coordinator and post auction sales department
• Partner with shipping coordinators on inbound shipments; monitor property movements during the normal course of business and exhibitions

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s Degree required, ideally in relevant area of study/interest
• Proficiency in English and French
• Excellent project management and organizational skills
• Strong analytical skills: ability to read, interpret and present data in a structured way
• Strong computer skills with excellent knowledge of Excel G-Suite
• A team player: ability to work well with others and independently
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and proficient in English
• Strong attention to detail
• A Creative Problem Solver
• Client facing abilities : being aligned with our customer-first value
• Flexibility in working across various time zones with the occasional overtime requirement
• Knowledge of luxury handbag models from Hermès is required, Chanel and Louis Vuitton a plus
• Knowledge of contemporary fashion history
• Foreign language knowledge a bonus (e.g. Chinese, Italian, German)
• Position based in Paris

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.