Head of Preferred Client Development

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

• The Head of Preferred Client Development will lead the growth and development of high-value client relationships for Sotheby’s, with a particular focus on expanding engagement among existing and prospective Preferred Clients.
• This is a senior relationship-led role for an individual with an exceptional network, strong commercial instincts and a demonstrated ability to translate relationships and introductions into meaningful, long-term client engagement.
• The successful candidate will combine deep knowledge of sophisticated client communities with the discipline to build a strong relationship pipeline, develop new networks and lead a team focused on expanding Sotheby’s reach among high-value clients.
• Working closely with Preferred Client Services, Events and other internal teams, this individual will ensure that prospective and developing client relationships are cultivated thoughtfully, discreetly and consistently.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Client & Relationship Development
  • Own the strategy for developing and expanding high-value client relationships across priority markets. Personally cultivate important existing and prospective relationships, leveraging a strong network of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals, influential connectors and trusted intermediaries.
• Network Development
  • Build on existing relationships while continuously expanding Sotheby’s reach into relevant communities across culture, business, philanthropy and other fields. Identify individuals and connectors who can introduce new high-quality relationships and develop those introductions into sustained engagement with Sotheby’s.
• Relationship Pipeline
  • Maintain a clear view of priority relationships, stages of engagement and next steps across the team. Establish disciplined practices for relationship development, follow-up and CRM management, ensuring opportunities progress thoughtfully and consistently over time.
• Client Engagement
  • Partner with Events, Preferred Client Services and other internal teams to create relevant touchpoints for developing relationships. Identify the right clients and prospective clients for selected experiences, introductions and opportunities, and ensure appropriate follow-through.
• Team Leadership
  • Lead, coach and develop a high-performing client development team. Establish clear expectations around relationship building, network development, follow-through and results, while maintaining Sotheby’s standards of discretion, judgment and client care.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
  • Work closely with colleagues across Preferred Client Services, Events and the wider business to coordinate relationship strategies, share appropriate client intelligence and ensure a seamless experience as relationships deepen across Sotheby’s.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Significant experience in private client development, luxury hospitality, wealth management, family office, private banking, luxury travel, cultural organizations or another highly relationship-driven environment.
• An extensive and relevant network of high-net-worth and ultra-high-net-worth individuals and influential connectors.
• Proven ability to activate personal and professional networks and develop introductions into meaningful, sustained client relationships. 
• Demonstrated ability to build new networks beyond an existing contact base.
• Strong commercial instincts and experience managing a disciplined relationship pipeline. 
• Proven experience leading and developing high-performing relationship or client-facing teams. 
• Exceptional interpersonal skills, presence, discretion and judgment. 
• Strong organizational skills and consistent follow-through 
• Experience with CRM or clienteling systems preferred. 
• Sophisticated interest in art, culture, travel and the creative world strongly preferred. 
• International experience and relationships across multiple markets preferred.

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $200,000-$250,000. 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. 

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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.