Job Description

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

Sotheby’s is seeking an experienced Writer & Researcher to join its Sports team in New York. This full-time role will be responsible for researching, writing and fact-checking content across the department, with a particular focus on the information presented within Sports auction lots.

The successful candidate will be an exceptional writer and researcher who can identify what makes an object important and turn detailed research into engaging, accessible copy. A key part of the role will be shaping the story around each lot, understanding the moments, achievements and context that make the property interesting to collectors and communicating that clearly in Sotheby’s voice.

This person will also take a leading role in the Sports cataloguing process, setting standards for research, writing and review and helping ensure the department is producing the highest quality content for clients.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the Sports cataloguing process from a writing and research perspective, setting and maintaining clear standards for catalogue notes, sourcing, fact-checking, condition reporting and final review.
• Research and write catalogue content for significant and high-value property, identifying the history, context and details that best communicate the importance and appeal of each lot.
• Review catalogue content produced across the team, providing edits and guidance and ensuring work meets Sotheby’s standards for accuracy, clarity and quality before publication.
• Develop and improve workflows for research, writing and quality control, giving the team a consistent structure for producing and reviewing catalogue content.
• Conduct detailed research into players, teams, games, statistics, records, provenance and other relevant context using appropriate internal and external sources.
• Write and proofread broader Sports content including sale and lot overview pages, editorial features, press materials, website content and social copy.
• Inspect property and prepare condition reports, working with Specialists and relevant internal or external experts where needed.
• Work closely with Specialists and colleagues across Editorial, Marketing, Press, Social, Photography and other support departments to meet catalogue and publication deadlines.

IDEAL EXPERIENCE & COMPETENCIES

• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in writing, research, editing, journalism, cataloguing or a related field.
• Exceptional writing and research skills, with the ability to turn detailed information into engaging and concise copy.
• Strong editorial judgment and an instinct for identifying the details that make a story or object compelling.
• Experience setting or maintaining editorial, research or cataloguing standards and reviewing the work of others.
• Strong editing skills and the ability to quickly adopt an established tone and style.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong fact-checking skills.
• Ability to work independently, take ownership of projects and manage multiple assignments and deadlines.
• Strong knowledge of sports and sports history preferred.
• Experience in sports media, journalism, publishing, editorial, research, sports memorabilia or collectibles preferred.
• Auction house cataloguing or research experience helpful but not required.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent professional experience.

The proposed base salary for this position ranges from $70,000-$90,000. 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.

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