Associate Specialist

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 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. 

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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.