Senior Director, Private Sales, UK

sothebys· Private Sales
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📍 London

About this role

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 across 70 selling categories is supported by a leading technology platform and a global network of specialists spanning 40 countries. Selling categories include Contemporary Art, Modern and Impressionist Art, Old Masters, Chinese Works of Art, Jewelry, Watches, Wine and Spirits and Design, as well as collectible cars and real estate through RM Sotheby’s and Concierge. Sotheby’s Financial Services is a leading art lender and provides capital solutions for collectors around the world, having originated more than $12 billion in loans since its inception. Sotheby’s new global headquarters is now open at the iconic Breuer building at 945 Madison Avenue in New York City.

THE ROLE

This role is a critical part of the European Private Sales leadership team, helping grow the profitability, performance and strategic initiatives for the London Private Sale business.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • In collaboration with the private sale leadership team, articulate, develop and execute key strategic initiatives to grow the business in UK: private sale exhibitions, new private sale formats, digital initiatives, key client focus, key artists focus
  • Generate revenue growth by sourcing and selling blue-chip Modern and Ctp Art, focusing on works above $1M. Together with Client Development identify specific client priorities, key business strategies and action plans for existing or newly identified clients.
  • Managing the European Private Sales Manager and Client Liaison.
  • Work collaboratively with peers in the Global Private Sales team to deliver against the strategic plan 2022 and beyond.
  • Participate in major auctions by bringing clients through Sotheby’s galleries, producing bids and executing bids in the saleroom on behalf of your clients, attending interest meetings, providing post sale service to successful buyers
  • Maintain a high profile within the wider external communities by attending major art fairs, exhibition and museum openings 

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

  • 12+ years of experience needed
  • First class level of expertise in the contemporary art field
  • Ability to work well under pressure and with a flexible approach to a wide range of tasks.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills – both spoken and written.
  • Commitment to an exemplary level of client service.
  • A seasoned and inspirational team leader
  • Have a balance of strategic and creative thinking with strong communication skills
  • Energetic, outgoing and curious, with the ability to reach out and engage with a broad range of colleagues and external partners

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The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race (including, without limitation, traits historically associated with race, such as natural hair, hair texture, and protective and treated or untreated hairstyles), color, creed, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital or civil partnership/union status, national origin, age, disability, pregnancy, genetic predisposition, genetic information, reproductive health decision, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, alienage or citizenship status, domestic violence victim status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province or local law. The Company complies with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which it operates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Senior Director, Private Sales, UK position at sothebys?
The salary for this Senior Director, Private Sales, UK role at sothebys is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Senior Director, Private Sales, UK position at sothebys located?
This Senior Director, Private Sales, UK role at sothebys is based in London. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Which team or department does the Senior Director, Private Sales, UK at sothebys belong to?
This Senior Director, Private Sales, UK position is part of the Private Sales department at sothebys. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Senior Director, Private Sales, UK position at sothebys?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to sothebys's official application portal hosted on greenhouse where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Senior Director, Private Sales, UK job at sothebys posted?
This Senior Director, Private Sales, UK position at sothebys was posted on Apr 3, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Senior Director, Private Sales, UK
sothebys
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