Logistics Support Manager

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 Logistics Support Manager supports the VP, Head of Logistics & Auction Operations by managing administrative functions and leading projects within the US logistics department. This department oversees the handling of artworks and objects from initial receipt, to exhibition within the auction house, through to release to the buyer.

The role has a strong emphasis on Union & Property Handler administration, Finance, Data Analysis & KPI reporting, and ad hoc project support (approximately 70%), while also dedicating around 30% to Exhibition & Gallery Management support. Because of the significant involvement in exhibitions, there is a dotted line reporting relationship to the Gallery & Exhibitions Manager, providing exposure to both business management and gallery operations. This makes the role particularly exciting for candidates looking to gain experience across multiple facets of the auction business.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Union & Property Handler Administration

• Manage scheduling of Property Handlers, including PTO, sick days, daily schedules, overtime sign-ups, and allocations.
• Coordinate weekly overtime scheduling in collaboration with the Logistics Manager, Warehouse Manager, and Gallery & Exhibitions Manager.
• Arrange training programs for Property Handling teams.
• Assist with payroll queries related to Property Handler overtime, working closely with Payroll to ensure accuracy and resolve issues promptly.

2. Finance, Data Analysis & KPIs

• Assist the VP, Head of Logistics & Auction Operations with managing departmental expenses, monthly budgets, and forecasts in collaboration with the Finance team.
• Monitor expenses throughout the year, identifying trends to inform budget planning and decision-making.
• Maintain and update Weekly and Monthly Key Performance Indicator (KPI) reports, identifying workload trends, SLA performance, and areas requiring attention.

3. Sale Calendar, Exhibition & Gallery

• Collaborate with the VP, Head of Logistics & Auction Operations, and Gallery & Exhibitions Manager on sale calendar planning, ensuring alignment across space, logistics, and budget considerations.
• Liaise with sale directors and external partners to coordinate scheduling and requirements.
• Support the Gallery & Exhibitions team with installation and breakdown of exhibitions across Sotheby’s galleries.
• Play an active role in marquee sales (May and November), coordinating gallery installations in partnership with carpentry, electrical, paint, and cleaning teams.
• Ensure smooth daily communication of exhibition schedules, gallery activations, and third-party vendor activity to stakeholders.
• Review and process invoices for gallery and exhibition-related goods and services, ensuring accuracy and timely vendor payments.

4. Ad hoc Support

• Coordinate and order supplies for the Logistics Team, ensuring timely delivery and cost-effectiveness.
• Support special projects or contract negotiations initiated by the VP, Head of Logistics & Auction Operations or executive leadership, e.g., data gathering for the transition to the Met Breuer building.
• Act as project manager on cross-functional initiatives, ensuring timely and budget-conscious completion of tasks assigned to Logistics, Warehouse, and Gallery & Exhibitions managers.
• Perform general administrative tasks, including correspondence, scheduling meetings, and managing departmental records.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Project Management, Event Management, or a related field preferred.
• Proven experience in office management, logistics coordination, or administrative roles.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, Google Sheets, and SAP.
  Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a positive and professional demeanor aligned to Sotheby’s Service Standards.
• Ability to work well under pressure as well as working across both office and gallery/warehouse environments as required.

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $65,000-$70,000. 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.