Director [Santa Fe Art Auction, NM]

Description

Auction Director – Santa Fe Art Auction

The Santa Fe Art Auction, the Southwest’s largest auction of Classic Western Art, is seeking an Auction Director to manage its yearly auction. The Auction Director is responsible for acquiring, cataloguing and preparing consigned property for sale.  Responsibilities include the production of appraisals and proposals, knowledge of domestic client relationship management, knowledge of relevant markets for the art category, and negotiating and selling skills.

Duties Include:

• Auction development
• Management of the  Auction Coordinator
• Research property including authenticity, bibliography, provenance and exhibition history
• Catalogue property for public and private sales and write and prepare catalogue essays
• Review incoming photo inquires to determine sale potential
• Work with all client categories (collectors, dealers, corporations, institutions) in the area of business-getting and selling
• Participate in catalogue production and layout process
• Prepare condition reports of consigned property prior to the auction
• Participate in telephone bidding with clients during auction
• View and visit competitors auctions and track overall results
• Director of marketing and advertising for the auction

Requirements

Skills and Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in applicable Art History or Decorative Arts category; MA preferred
• Knowledge of E-mail, Spreadsheet, Word Processing and Presentation software (Microsoft Office preferred)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, including superior written and spoken communication
• Superior client service skills
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task and prioritize
• Strong follow-up skills with attention to detail
• Ability to work within a team environment and must be self-directed
• Knowledge of limits and when to seek assistance
• Auction experience required

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in an office setting, gallery setting and off-site in various client settings (private, corporate and institution.)

Physical Requirements:

• Required to handle, inspect and/or take photographs of works of art for appraisal and consignment
• Required to create written or recorded descriptions of inspected items
• Required to attend events, exhibitions, art fairs locally, and domestically
• Required to meet with clients on-site and off-site

Some travel required (local and domestic.) This role is an exciting position for a team-oriented and highly polished professional who enjoys a multi-faceted role. The successful candidate will be able to elevate company standards, build strong client relationships and meet time sensitive auction project deadlines through strong communication, interpersonal & computer skills.

Plese send resume and cover letter. No phone calls, please.