Sales Operations Manager

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.

THE ROLE

The Sales 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 Sales 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.

RESPONSIBILITIES

People & Operational Leadership

• Directly manage a group of Pre-Sale Coordinators and provide day-to-day support and guidance
• Recruit, train, coach, and develop a high-performing team of Pre-Sale Coordinators
• Set clear performance expectations, provide regular feedback, and manage performance outcomes
• Partner with Head of Sales Operations to set goals and perform annual performance reviews
• Maintain a team budget and tracker
• Serve as a subject matter expert for Pre-Sale workflows and assist Coordinators with complex issues

Pre-Sale Execution & Specialist Department Support

Ensure adequate Pre-Sale Coordinators coverage for specialist departments (holidays, sick leave) and take on full sale coordination if needed

Act as a senior escalation point, resolving matters through to completion. Collaborate with specialist department stakeholders on issue resolution

Update auction calendars in accordance with sale date and time changes

Manage compliance, risk, and escalations appropriately

Oversee and support Coordinators with entering complex consignment terms correctly into SAP (graduated VC, Share, Guarantees, IBs) and ensure Non-Standard Terms spreadsheet is completed

Execute sale conversions in the auction platform

Assist 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 sales

Ensure financial transactions amongst teams comply with corporate governance

Work with key department stakeholders to ensure outputs are delivered to the highest quality

Oversee coordination of after-sale transactions including post-auction sales, account adjustments and canceled sales

Assist with staffing for handcarries, shipping oversees, client viewings, exhibition support.

Cross-Functional Collaboration & Improvement

• Work 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 team
• Collaborate with the Product & Technology teams for projects, system development, testing scenarios, improvements, etc.
• Partner with legal, compliance, and the commercial office
• Special project management
• Contribute to broader operational and transformation initiatives aligned with Operations priorities

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

Bachelor’s Degree required, ideally in relevant area of study/interest

3–5 years of experience in management, operations, logistics, or related fields

Previous Pre Sale Coordinator or relevant experience within an auction house is desired but not a pre-requisite

Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills

High attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities

Calm, professional demeanor with excellent judgment under pressure

Excellent organizational skills including the ability to multitask and prioritize

Ability to communicate at all levels, to present information and influence behaviors/culture

Empathetic, energetic, persistent, and proactive with a flexible, forward-thinking approach

Working knowledge of Sotheby’s systems, procedures and sale administration is an advantage

Proficiency in Excel; experience with SAP or similar systems preferred

Able to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion

The 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.