Partnership Development 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 spans 70 selling categories and is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists in 40 countries. Categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, Design, collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender, having originated more than $12 billion in loans. Our new global headquarters is located in the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue, New York City.

The Role

We are seeking a forward‑thinking, dynamic professional to join our prestigious 281‑year‑old brand and harness the power of our unparalleled assets to craft impactful marketing partnerships. The Brand Partnerships team develops bespoke collaborations with like‑minded companies across multiple verticals, leveraging the Sotheby’s brand and its global reach in art, culture and luxury. Our omnichannel partnership model includes digital and print media, experiential marketing, and innovative commerce solutions. Partners span luxury goods, technology, financial services, automotive, hospitality, real estate, and travel.

Responsibilities

• Develop new partnership formats and strategies with a strong focus on revenue generation and business development.
• Drive the strategic development of meaningful and immersive brand activations across digital, physical, and content partnerships.
• Support acquisition process, managing outreach and prospecting.
• Lead pitches and present elevated partnership proposals with clear, compelling storylines backed by research and strategic insights.
• Execute partnership deals with end‑to‑end ownership, acting as the primary account manager and ensuring smooth execution from inception to completion.
• Proactively nurture and support each partner, acting as a key advisor on processes, market opportunities, and strategic collaboration.
• Manage operational aspects of partner activations, including logistics, regulations, build‑out, permitting, and on‑site execution.
• Oversee contract management, benefit fulfillment, financial control, invoicing, and reporting processes.
• Monitor partnership performance, analyze key metrics, and provide strategic insights for continuous improvement.
• Compile partnership reports, post‑event feedback, and debriefs to measure ROI and optimize future partnerships.
• Oversee collateral management (print, digital, and on‑site signage) related to partners.
• Collaborate with internal teams—including Marketing, Communications, Specialist Departments, Legal, Business Development, and Special Events—to ensure seamless communication and alignment.
• Identify the partnership package being offered and secure approved/pre‑approved rights and benefits with internal local stakeholders.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in partnership marketing, business development, or account management, with a proven ability to secure and execute high‑impact brand collaborations.
• Creative and strategic thinker, able to develop innovative, forward‑thinking partnerships that drive brand engagement and revenue.
• Strong sales and negotiation skills, with experience leading pitches and closing high‑value deals.
• Project and account management expertise, capable of overseeing complex activations and coordinating cross‑functional teams.
• Results‑driven mindset, skilled in setting performance metrics, tracking ROI, and optimizing partnerships for long‑term success.
• Entrepreneurial spirit with a proactive, solution‑oriented approach to driving growth and identifying new opportunities.
• Detail‑oriented and excellence‑driven, committed to delivering best‑in‑class execution.
• Exceptional communicator and relationship builder, with strong presentation and interpersonal skills.
• Self‑motivated, highly organized, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast‑paced environment.
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Passion for the art world and luxury industry is a plus.

Compensation

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $100,000 – $130,000. Salary offers consider relevant skills, training, experience, education, certifications, and market and organizational factors.

Benefits

• Discretionary bonus
• Competitive benefits package