Temporary Associate Cataloguer, Contemporary and Modern Art, Milan

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S
Established 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.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Cataloguing 
Researching and cataloguing objects to the highest standard, including physical inspection and documentation of works as well as provenance and academic research for each work for the Milan sales and export properties
Preparation of footnotes/essays and talking points for each work
Assisting with research and object vetting, both internally and with external experts
Assisting in facilitating conservation projects
Preparing condition reports
Assisting with catalogue layouts as needed
Liaising with the Catalogue Production department and other support departments, adhering to deadlines
Maintaining active communication with Specialists and Sale Manager to ensure seamless catalogue photography and catalogue layout processes, including alerting relevant colleagues to logistical, installation, condition or authenticity issues pertaining to specific works
Support Cataloguing, Photo and Research processes at the highest quality standards
Coordinating with Operations, Cat Prod & conservators for pre-sale needs
Assist with book checks, essays and editorial content
Handcarry and pick up support
Coordinating with conservators and Operations for ad hoc framing and repairs
Other Tasks
Assisting the department with valuations, including data entry
Assisting the department in day-to-day projects, sale preparation and client management
Liaise and coordinate with Proposals and Marketing departments as needed
Providing a comprehensive level of service to Sotheby’s clients.  This includes responding to day-to-day client queries and maintaining client contact
Assisting in selling the sale by helping clients at the exhibition; speaking to clients about the property; develop, track and communicate client interest in lots; and execute bids at the sale
Client Support
Providing the Chairman and her clients with day-to-day information on past and forthcoming sales, identify property of interest coming up for sale at auction or privately, obtain bidding advice and execution condition reports and other relevant information
Deliver client requests concerning general collection management including consignments, pre- and post-sale support and administration, bid registration and execution, loan requests, transactional history, accounts and valuations.
Monitor consignment process pre- and post-sale in order to ensure a smooth selling experience and high sell through rates for consignments.
Coordinate tracking and input of all significant contribution for auction consignments, purchases, IB and underbids, private treaty sales.
Ensure that the Chairman’s managed clients receive a consistently high level of service, by maintaining communication with all the departments.
IDEAL COMPETENCIES AND EXPERIENCE
1+ year of experience in the art world is preferred (also auction house experience preferred)
Good, general knowledge of Contemporary and Modern Art
A team player with excellent communication skills
Thorough and focused, with a passion and commitment to learning about and working in the field
Professional and discreet client service skills
Excellent writing, proof-reading and organizational skills
Ability to maintain composure in a stressful environment and meet frequent deadlines
Ability to prioritize and multi-task
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