Head of Proposals, Maternity Cover

ABOUT SOTHEBY'S

Established in 1744, Sotheby’s is the world’s premier destination for art and luxury. Sotheby’s promotes access to and ownership of exceptional art and luxury objects through auctions and buy-now channels including private sales, e-commerce and retail. Our trusted global marketplace is supported by an industry-leading technology platform and a network of specialists spanning 40 countries and 70 categories which 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. Sotheby’s believes in the transformative power of art and culture and is committed to making our industries more inclusive, sustainable and collaborative.

THE ROLE

We are currently looking for a Head of Proposals, France, for a 6-month fixed-term contract to cover a maternity leave. The Head of Proposals, France, partners closely with Senior Specialists, Chairmen, and other business-development officers throughout the business-getting cycle, developing strategies tailored to the specific needs of high-value collectors and fiduciaries. The Head of Proposals, France leads cross-functional meetings at the kick-off for all major projects, develops strategies and action plans in alignment with the business leads, and closely monitors the progress of each proposal through the pitch with clients. S/he must have strong communication and leadership skills, excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities, the gravitas to make executive decisions when needed, and a steady and diplomatic demeanor under pressure.

This role will lead a Paris-based team, ensuring excellence against tight deadlines, driving creative innovation, analyzing results and seeking feedback to ensure a cycle of continual improvement. S/he is a mentor to each member of the team, reviewing the work of the further Paris-based Proposal Writer, providing guidance, and nurturing leadership skills. S/he is responsible for the timely completion of all projects, and ensures that they create the best possible impression on our clients.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan, write and manage production of compelling, persuasive and bespoke proposal documents and pitch materials to tight deadlines.
• Coordinate and oversee all aspects of proposal production and delivery, including scheduling, researching, outlining, writing, editing, proofreading, designing, and publishing the Proposal.
• Line manage a further Paris-based Proposal Writer.
• Manage workloads, ensuring deadlines are met and work is of the highest possible standard. Define and direct team strategy. Manage departmental budget.
• Develop and nurture positive relationships with senior business-getters and colleagues in Paris, New York, and other Sotheby’s locations. Maintain a thorough ongoing knowledge of their business goals, customer priorities, and competitive environment and in turn, help them to understand and embrace new business pitching approaches.
• Meet regularly with the Business Development team in Paris to track business opportunities and develop a project pipeline.
• Collaborate closely with both the Global Editor & Head of Proposals, London and the Head of Proposals, Americas to balance workloads and ensure consistency across product and process.
• Collaborate closely with colleagues across the Marketing Division, especially the Marketing & Events Director, Europe and the Marketing Managers in Paris.
• Keep abreast of market data, media coverage and general developments at Sotheby’s and in the broader art market, in order to keep proposals fresh, relevant and compelling.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Master’s Degree, with a preference for Business Schools or History or Art Degrees.
• Strong experience as a manager or director in a directly relevant industry (ie. art market, publishing, business development).
• French native speaker, with excellent spoken and written English.
• Strong leadership and project management skills; can confidently lead meetings and build relationships with key stakeholders.
• Excellent writing, editing and communication skills.
• Meticulous attention to detail and follow-up skills.
• Ability to supervise a creative team in both print and digital realms.
• Ability to collaborate in a team environment as well as to work independently.
• Ability to prioritize in complex, fast-paced environment while managing a high-pressured team.
• Highly motivated, organized, proactive, enthusiastic and resourceful.
• Proficient use of InDesign and Microsoft Office Suite including Outlook, Word and PowerPoint.

The Company is an equal opportunity employer and considers all applicants for employment without regard to race, 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.