Specialist, Handbags

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail. Expertise spans 70 selling categories—including Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits, Design, collectible cars, and real estate—supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists in 40 countries. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since inception.

About the role

The Handbags Specialist sources luxury bags and accessories for Auction and Buy Now Marketplace, provides pricing and valuation services, authenticates bags, and builds buyer relationships while collaborating with internal teams such as Catalogers, Account Managers, Coordinators, and Relationship Managers.

Responsibilities

• Drive business for Auctions in New York and across the region, as well as major US locations and Buy-Now Marketplace.
• Lead Private Sale activity within the region, including organizing Private Sale exhibitions in US markets.
• Inspect and authenticate properties in the US.
• Collaborate with Head of Department and Marketing teams to promote Auctions and Marketplace initiatives.
• Outreach to auction bidders and buyers to build relationships.
• Engage with Sotheby’s Relationship Managers to ensure internal awareness of all sales in this category.
• Provide regular analysis of auction data to the Head of Department.
• Advise on handbag and accessory product mix for US clientele.
• Provide pricing, terms of consignment, and other deal-specific information to consignors.
• Ensure proper execution of product photography.
• Work collaboratively with team Administrators and Coordinators to facilitate smooth handoff of information and positive client experiences.
• Participate in regular pipeline meetings to update the Head of Department on progress for Auction and Marketplace channels.
• Travel regularly throughout the US as required.

Requirements

• Proven experience managing client portfolios and driving sales.
• Experience as a handbag authenticator and valuer.
• Background in auction house, ecommerce, or second-hand luxury shop.
• Knowledge of retail and resale markets for luxury handbags and accessories.
• Interest in luxury brands and ecommerce businesses.
• Enthusiastic, proactive, and flexible.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills; capable of building meaningful client relationships.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a busy, global team.
• Ability to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion.
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Suite; tech-savvy.

Pay

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $70,000 to $90,000. Successful candidates are also eligible for a discretionary bonus and a competitive benefits package.