Merchandising Manager, Handbags at Sotheby’s

New York, New York, United States

Sotheby’s Logo
Not SpecifiedCompensation
Mid-level (3 to 4 years), Senior (5 to 8 years)Experience Level
Full TimeJob Type
UnknownVisa
Luxury Goods, Auctions, FashionIndustries

Requirements

  • Proven account management, project management or other relevant experience
  • Ability to juggle multiple account management projects at a time, while maintaining sharp attention to detail
  • Working-to-expert knowledge of specific business units (Fashion (Handbags and Sneakers), Fine Arts, Interiors, Jewellery, Watches)
  • Entrepreneurial spirit coupled with a high level of self-motivation
  • A high degree of business acumen, sophistication, and the ability to establish trust with a variety of personalities
  • Demonstrated track record of meeting & exceeding monthly goals
  • Great degree of organization and attention to detail
  • Comfort with ambiguity, and ability to navigate new business challenges
  • Ability to master multiple technical devices and systems
  • Ability to manage and work with teams in multiple locations
  • Digital or online experience a plus

Responsibilities

  • Manage all inbound consignment inquiries from private handbags and dealer consignors
  • Answer client queries, oversee a portfolio of handbags contacts, develop new business from existing clients and actively seek new sales opportunities
  • Develop trusted advisor relationships with key individual handbag consignors, dealers and end customer stakeholders
  • Liaise between customers and cross-functional internal teams (including operations, finance, post sale, compliance or client services) to ensure the timely and successful delivery of our solutions according to customer needs
  • Expertly evaluate potential consignments for salability according to diamond, gemstone, silhouette, price point, metal, designer or private label and negotiate commissions and agree fixed prices for appropriate handbags
  • Clearly communicate the Sotheby’s value proposition and process to consignors to deliver an exceptional client experience
  • Maintain the highest standard of client service, and proactively manage and support high-touch clients. This may include preparation of reports, or sales reconciliations
  • Serve as the main point of contact for all handbags account management and pre and post sale matters (including VAT, delivery note, client account creation, finance, delivery note, self-billing breakdown or administration)
  • Possibly manage a team of Account Associates or Account Coordinators
  • Maintain detailed status reports for all consignments, communicating these regularly to all internal and external stakeholders
  • Represent the Sotheby’s Buy Now Handbags offering communicating the selection, offering and proposition to increase consumer awareness

Skills

Key technologies and capabilities for this role

Consignment ManagementClient Relationship ManagementBusiness DevelopmentPricingCatalogingHandbags ValuationAuction ProcessesPortfolio ManagementCross-functional CollaborationSales Development

Questions & Answers

Common questions about this position

What are the main responsibilities of the Merchandising Manager for Handbags?

The role involves managing inbound consignment inquiries from private handbags and dealer consignors, evaluating potential consignments for salability based on factors like designer, silhouette, and price point, and liaising between customers and cross-functional teams to ensure timely delivery of solutions.

Is there a salary or compensation mentioned for this position?

This information is not specified in the job description.

What is the work arrangement or location policy for this role?

This information is not specified in the job description.

Does this role involve managing a team?

Yes, the Merchandising Manager may possibly manage a team of Account Associates or Account Coordinators.

What makes a strong candidate for the Merchandising Manager role?

A strong candidate would have expertise in evaluating handbags based on designer, silhouette, price point, and market salability, strong client service skills to build trusted advisor relationships, and the ability to liaise effectively with cross-functional teams.

Sotheby’s

Auction house for fine art

About Sotheby’s

Sotheby's is a global auction house that specializes in selling fine art, luxury items, and collectibles through live and online auctions, as well as private sales. The company provides online estimates to help sellers determine the value of their items, which is a key differentiator from competitors. Sotheby's holds auctions in major cities worldwide, attracting a diverse audience and ensuring a competitive market for high-end items. The goal is to connect buyers and sellers in the luxury market while offering a personalized and discreet experience.

New York City, New YorkHeadquarters
1744Year Founded
$4MTotal Funding
POST_IPO_EQUITYCompany Stage
Real Estate, Consumer GoodsIndustries
1,001-5,000Employees

Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life Insurance
Disability Insurance
Paid Vacation
Paid Sick Leave
Paid Holidays
401(k) Company Match
Professional Development Budget

Risks

NFT market volatility poses financial risks for Sotheby's digital collectibles sales.
Recent staff layoffs indicate potential financial instability or auction performance downturn.
The $100 million Breuer building acquisition could strain financial resources if unprofitable.

Differentiation

Sotheby's offers both live and online auctions, catering to diverse client preferences.
The company provides private sales for clients seeking privacy and exclusivity in transactions.
Sotheby's expertise in valuing rare items attracts high-end collectors and investors.

Upsides

Sotheby's collaboration with The Luxury Group offers unique luxury auction experiences.
The acquisition of the Breuer building enhances Sotheby's brand and auction venue prestige.
Sotheby's acceptance of cryptocurrency payments attracts crypto-wealthy buyers.

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