THE ROLE

The Pre-Sale Manager is responsible for core management, people and transformation priorities as well as maintaining oversight of the presale responsibilities for their team. As part of the Service Operations management team, the Pre-Sale Manager will collaborate across Service Operations globally to ensure delivery of standardization of process and the day-to-day delivery of the operation to a high standard of quality. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

Pre-Sale Manager Responsibilities

• Line manage a group of Pre-Sale Coordinators and provide day-to-day support and guidance 
• Pre-Sale Coordinator performance management including goal setting and annual reviews
• Recruitment of Pre Sale Coordinators for roles 
• Oversee training programme for new Pre Sale Coordinators 
• Manage risk and escalation appropriately  
• Ensure adequate Pre-Sale Coordinators  coverage for specialist departments (holidays, sick leave)
• Work with key department stakeholders to ensure outputs are delivered to the highest quality 
• Partner closely with post-sale managers to ensure appropriate handoff and completion of the client journey 
• Work alongside Head of Client Experience and take personal accountability for the direction of transformation within the Presale function and the wider Service Operation team 
• Collaborate as a team across Client Experience teams to manage workloads

Oversee Sale Coordination Responsibilities

Manage Pre-Sale coordinator team in liaising with sellers and their property through pre- and post-sale process for Auction and Private Sales, in accordance with sale administration calendars

• Oversee and support new Coordinators with entering complex consignment terms correctly into SAP (graduated VC, Share, Guarantees, IBs) and ensure Non-Standard Terms spreadsheet is completed and lots are blocked in SAP
• Assist Coordinators with complex post-sale client issues e.g. canceled sales
• Ensure financial transactions amongst team comply with corporate governance
• Assist Coordinators with movement of property via NY for other sale locations (export for sale and return shipments) 
• Oversee coordination of post-auction transactions including post-auction sales, account adjustments and canceled sales
• Coordinate Presale activity for specialist departments on an ad hoc basis

Third-Party Services and Procurement

• Ensure Coordinators are completing Purchase Order forms and obtaining authorization prior to ordering goods
• Ensure re-billables are charged correctly and respond to Finance queries regarding department parked aged documents  

Manage Departmental Inventory

• Provide guidance on inventory issues 
• Support Inactive Inventory Initiative and work with Logistics staff to meet inventory targets and review 

General

• Ensure complex issues are resolved promptly and any escalations are communicated to the Head of Client Experience
• Work and communicate effectively with local and international colleagues
• Work on company initiatives and projects as directed

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Previous Pre Sale Coordinator or relevant experience within an auction house is desired
• Experience in managing a team is an advantage but not a prerequisite
• Enthusiastic and proactive with a flexible, forward-thinking approach
• Good communication and client service skills
• Excellent organizational skills including the ability to multitask and prioritize
• High level of attention to detail
• Ability to communicate at all levels, to present information and influence behaviors/culture
• Energetic and persistent 
• Working knowledge of Sotheby’s systems, procedures and sale administration is an advantage but not a prerequisite
• Able to maintain the highest standards of confidentiality and discretion

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $60,000-$70,000. In addition to base salary successful candidates are eligible to receive a discretionary bonus, as well as a competitive benefits package. Salary offers are based on a wide range of factors including relevant skills, training, experience, education, and, where applicable, licensure or certifications obtained. Market and organizational factors are also considered.