Specialist, Handbags

The role

This person will drive business-getting for auctions and private sales in Dubai and the Middle East. They will inspect and authenticate properties and advise on product mix for regional clientele.

What you will do

• Business-getting for Auctions in Dubai and across the region
• Contributing to major selling European locations and Buy-Now Marketplace
• Drive Private Sale activity within region including the organization of Private Sale exhibitions within the Middle East
• Inspect and authenticate properties in the Middle East
• Work with Head of department and Marketing teams to promote all Auctions and Marketplace initiatives
• Outreach to auction bidders and buyers to build relationships
• Outreach to Sotheby’s Relationship Managers to ensure internal awareness of all sales
• Provide regular analysis of auction data to the Head of Department
• Advise on handbag and accessory product mix for Middle East clientele
• Provide pricing, terms of consignment, and other deal-specific information to consignors

Required qualifications

• Proven experience of managing client portfolios and driving sales
• Experience as a handbag’s authenticator and valuer
• Experience in auction house, ecommerce or second-hand luxury shop
• A minimum of five years of professional experience within the GCC region
• Knowledge of retail and resale markets for luxury handbags and accessories
• Interest in luxury brands and ecommerce businesses
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English
• Enthusiastic, proactive, and flexible
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Problem-solving mindset
• Ability to work independently and as part of a busy, global team
• Ability to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion

Nice to have

• Arabic language skills highly valued
• French language skills highly advantageous
• other European language skills highly valued
• Proficient in Excel, PowerPoint, and Google Suite, tech savvy

About the company

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s promotes access and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions, private sales and retail.