Head of Preferred Client Development

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Its expertise spans 70 selling categories and a global network of specialists in 40 countries, including Contemporary, Modern, Old Masters, Chinese art, jewelry, watches, wine, design, collectible cars, real estate, and financial services.

About the Role

The Head of Preferred Client Development will lead the growth and development of high‑value client relationships for Sotheby’s, focusing on expanding engagement among existing and prospective Preferred Clients. This senior, relationship‑led position requires an exceptional network, strong commercial instincts, and the ability to translate introductions into long‑term client engagement. The role works closely with Preferred Client Services, Events, and other internal teams to cultivate prospective and developing client relationships thoughtfully, discreetly, and consistently.

Responsibilities

• Client & Relationship Development: Own the strategy for developing and expanding high‑value client relationships across priority markets; personally cultivate important existing and prospective relationships using a strong network of high‑net‑worth individuals, influential connectors, and trusted intermediaries.
• Network Development: Build on existing relationships while continuously expanding Sotheby’s reach into relevant communities across culture, business, philanthropy, and other fields; identify individuals and connectors who can introduce new high‑quality relationships and develop those introductions into sustained engagement.
• Relationship Pipeline: Maintain a clear view of priority relationships, stages of engagement, and next steps; establish disciplined practices for relationship development, follow‑up, and CRM management to ensure opportunities progress thoughtfully and consistently.
• Client Engagement: Partner with Events, Preferred Client Services, and other internal teams to create relevant touchpoints; identify the right clients for selected experiences, introductions, and opportunities, and ensure appropriate follow‑through.
• Team Leadership: Lead, coach, and develop a high‑performing client development team; set clear expectations around relationship building, network development, follow‑through, and results while maintaining Sotheby’s standards of discretion, judgment, and client care.
• Cross‑Functional Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues across Preferred Client Services, Events, and the wider business to coordinate relationship strategies, share appropriate client intelligence, and ensure a seamless experience as relationships deepen.

Requirements

• Significant experience in private client development, luxury hospitality, wealth management, family office, private banking, luxury travel, cultural organizations, or another highly relationship‑driven environment.
• An extensive and relevant network of high‑net‑worth and ultra‑high‑net‑worth individuals and influential connectors.
• Proven ability to activate personal and professional networks and develop introductions into meaningful, sustained client relationships.
• Demonstrated ability to build new networks beyond an existing contact base.
• Strong commercial instincts and experience managing a disciplined relationship pipeline.
• Proven experience leading and developing high‑performing relationship or client‑facing teams.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, presence, discretion, and judgment.
• Strong organizational skills and consistent follow‑through.
• Experience with CRM or clienteling systems (preferred).
• Sophisticated interest in art, culture, travel, and the creative world (strongly preferred).
• International experience and relationships across multiple markets (preferred).

Pay

The proposed base salary ranges from $200,000 to $250,000. Successful candidates are also eligible for a discretionary bonus and a competitive benefits package. Salary offers consider skills, training, experience, education, licensure or certifications, as well as market and organizational factors.

Benefits

• Discretionary annual bonus.
• Competitive benefits package.