Associate Specialist, Fine Wine Sales

THE ROLE

The Associate Specialist, Fine Wine Sales is responsible for building a network of clients through new recruitments and cultivating existing relationships they have with Sotheby’s overall, for sales of fixed price bottles of wine (and spirits).  The primary goal is to meet and exceed sales goals to contribute towards the achievement of overall business plan through lead generation, data analysis, marketing coordination, and in‑store support.  This is an excellent opportunity for someone early in their career with a strong knowledge of fine wine and capable of delivering excellent client service experience.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Sales & Marketing Support

• Sales of fine wine (and spirits) through email, telephone and in-person.
• Help group and consolidate offers for targeted client outreach
• Assist in developing email campaign topics, offer summaries, and basic tasting notes
• Prepare and maintain client data to support email, phone, and in‑person follow‑up by the sales team
• Analyze sales and client activity data to identify trends and opportunities

Retail & Order Support

• Support the retail store team, including working selected Saturdays
• Assist with order preparation, including picking bottles for client orders
• Use POS systems to support transactions and inventory activity
• Help ensure the retail floor and back‑of‑house operations run smoothly
• Provide general in‑store client support as needed

Operational & Administrative Support

• Maintain accurate records in internal systems (POS, SAP where applicable)
• Assist with inventory-related tasks and coordination with the retail team
• Support broader business development and operational projects as assigned
• Uphold Sotheby’s standards for luxury service, presentation, and brand integrity

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred, ideally in business, marketing, hospitality, or a related field
• Strong knowledge of fine wine; formal wine qualifications are required (WSET III or higher or equivalent)
• Entry‑level experience in retail, hospitality, sales support, or luxury environments preferred
• Superior client service skills, from personal presentation, listening skills, and written/verbal communication
• Analytical mindset with interest in data mining, list building, and campaign support
• Highly organized, detail‑oriented, and comfortable working with data and systems
• Proficient with MS Office (Excel proficiency a strong plus)
• Experience with POS systems preferred; SAP knowledge a plus
• Team‑oriented, proactive, and eager to learn
• Flexible schedule, including rotational Saturday shifts
• Ability to lift up to approximately 40 lbs

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $70,000-$80,000. 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.