Sale Coordinator, Wine & Whisky

About Bonhams

Bonhams is a global auction house with an 18th century heritage poised for transformative change. Our global operations are based in London, Paris, New York, Los Angeles and Hong Kong where we sell in over 60 categories, including motor cars, paintings, jewellery, and entertainment memorabilia.

About the Team

Based out of the New Bond Street Saleroom, we are a busy and friendly team of 4 specialists 2 of whom are based in London and 1 located close to our warehouse in Wiltshire. Our whisky specialist is based out of the Edinburgh office. We currently hold 7 online auctions a year, working closely with our colleagues in Paris, the US & Hong Kong; The UK whisky auctions are held online and take place 5 - 6 times a year.

About the Role

The sale Coordinator is an integral role in this expert department, supporting the Specialists in the successful delivery of auctions as well as the day to day running of the department(s). In this role you will be based out of our New Bond Street saleroom working for both the Wine and Whisky departments across London and Edinburgh.

Key Tasks & Responsibilities

• You will be the department’s experienced user of Auctioneer 3, Bonhams’ bespoke Auction Management System and primary business tool.

• You will be responsible for managing clients and their property throughout the sale cycle, including receipting property into A3, generating and issuing consignment contracts, requesting and uploading client details and payment management.

• You will be the Department’s primary contact for a range of external stakeholders ranging from clients to warehouses and shippers, escalating to your Specialists when required.

• You will help co-ordinate the movement of property throughout the sale cycle, working with regional offices, London City Bond and the specialists to ensure efficient and compliant stock transfer.

• You will work with Client Services, Operations and London City Bond, International Shippers to support clients with after sale enquiries, including adding the delivery /transfer invoices to buyer’s accounts and arranging shipping quotes for both purchased and unsold lots. This includes making sure all lots from each sale are delivered/shipped/collected or transferred back.

• You will support your departments with preparing valuations. You may be required to help with photography of whisky consigned in London.

• You will be responsible for all paperwork and forms associated with the auction process.

• You be responsible for maintaining and updating the outreach list of buyers working with the other Wine/Whisky and Spirits sale coordinators globally.

• As an important part of the smooth running of the Departments, you will also support on many day-to-day auction activities and ensure the Departments have all they need to run smoothly and effectively. Tasks will include responding to client enquiries pre- and post-sale, bidding and event management.

Key Skills and Experience

• Strong time management and organisational ability

• Excellent communication in all modes with both internal and external stakeholders

• Ability to manage workflow and priorities in a fast-moving environment

• A flexible approach and a willingness to support Departments and teams outside of your core responsibilities

• 1-2 years in an administrative position (not necessarily from an auction background) including a good understanding of Excel

What we Offer

Some of our benefits and perks include:

• 28 days holidays (including Bank Holidays), increasing to 33 with service.

• Healthcare and Life Assurance

• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity leave

• Cycle to Work Scheme

• Season Ticket Loan

If you wish to apply, please send your CV and cover letter by the 24th September 2024 at midnight.

We thank you for your interest in this position but please note that we will only contact candidates chosen for further consideration.

Bonhams is an Equal Opportunity Employer. As part of our commitment to fight for equality, we work to ensure a fair and consistent interview process. We celebrate diversity and we are committed to an inclusive work environment.