Head of Private Sales, Handbags

THE ROLE

• The Head of Private Sales is responsible for originating, sourcing, developing and executing private sale opportunities within the Luxury Division and Handbags. Working closely with colleagues across Sotheby's global network, the role drives revenue growth by cultivating relationships with new and existing clients, identifying opportunities to buy and sell privately, and delivering exceptional client service throughout the transaction process.
• The role serves as the senior commercial lead for private sales within Handbags and is accountable for driving revenue growth through exceptional client engagement, business development and transaction execution.
• Working closely with colleagues across Sotheby's global network, the role leverages deep market knowledge, strong client relationships and commercial acumen to identify opportunities, source property, facilitate transactions and deliver exceptional client outcomes. The successful candidate will play a critical role in expanding Sotheby's market presence, increasing private sale activity and strengthening relationships with collectors, consignors, dealers, advisors and other key market participants.
• The role acts as a senior commercial representative for Handbags, partnering with specialists, Client Development teams and colleagues across the wider business to maximise private sale opportunities, grow market share and strengthen Sotheby's position within the luxury sector.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Private Sales
  • Drive the growth of private sale transactions within Handbags.
  • Originate, negotiate and execute private sale transactions, leveraging Sotheby's global network and client base to identify opportunities.
  • Lead the sourcing and origination of exceptional property within Handbags, leveraging personal networks, market intelligence and Sotheby's global platform to secure opportunities for both private sale and auction.
  • Develop and maintain a robust pipeline of private sale opportunities through proactive client engagement and business development activities.
  • Work closely with Private Sales Strategy, Client Development and Specialist teams to identify client priorities, create action plans and generate transaction opportunities
  • Maintain an exceptionally high level of client service, cultivating strong relationships with new and existing ultra-high-net-worth clients, collectors, dealers, advisors and other market participants.
  • Actively source property for private sale and identify opportunities to place property with existing and prospective buyers.
  • Participate in pricing, valuation and transaction discussions relating to private sale property.
  • Collaborate across departments and categories to maximise cross-selling opportunities and enhance client engagement.
  • Maintain accurate records of client interactions and opportunities within Sotheby's systems.
  • Identify opportunities to transition property and clients between auction and private channels to maximise commercial outcomes for clients and Sotheby’s.
  • Partner with auction teams to ensure opportunities across auction and private sale channels are fully leveraged.
• Business Development & Strategic Growth
  • Contribute to the development and execution of strategies designed to grow private sales revenue within Handbags.
  • Identify new business opportunities, emerging market trends and collecting behaviours to support commercial growth.
  • Maintain a deep understanding of Handbag-specific market dynamics and competitive activity, using market insights to identify opportunities and inform business strategy.
  • Work with leadership and specialist teams to develop initiatives that attract new clients and deepen existing client relationships.
  • Support Handbag-focused events, exhibitions, partnerships, private selling initiatives and other activities that generate business opportunities and increase market visibility.
  • Represent client interests and market intelligence in discussions relating to business planning and growth initiatives.
• Client Relationship Management
  • Build and maintain long-term relationships with key collectors, buyers, consignors, advisors and industry contacts.
  • Own relationships with strategic clients and market participants within Handbags, developing tailored approaches to drive acquisition, retention and transaction activity.
  • Deliver a highly personalised and consultative client experience.
  • Act as a trusted advisor to clients by providing market insight, collecting expertise and transaction guidance.
  • Collaborate with Client Development colleagues to identify and engage priority clients globall
• Handbags Representation & Brand Ambassadorship
  • Act as an ambassador for Sotheby's and Handbags both internally and externally.
    
  • Maintain a high profile within the Handbag market through attendance at fairs, exhibitions, industry events, client functions and other relevant activities.
  • Develop and maintain relationships with key industry stakeholders to enhance Sotheby's visibility and access to commercial opportunities.
  • Support departmental initiatives to engage new audiences and grow awareness of Handbags.
  • Contribute to media, content, social media and thought leadership opportunities where appropriate.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• 8+ years of professional and relevant experience within the luxury goods, art, collectibles or related markets
• Demonstrable success in originating and executing high-value transactions and developing strong client relationships.
• Deep understanding of the luxury market and its participants.
• Strong commercial acumen with the ability to identify and convert opportunities into revenue.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Ability to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues at all levels.
• Proven ability to build credibility and trust with high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth clients.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Collaborative approach with the ability to work effectively across departments and regions.
• Numerate and detail-oriented.
• Excellent computer skills, including Microsoft Office applications and relevant business systems. 
• Educated to degree level or equivalent relevant professional experience.
• Additional language skills would be advantageous.